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SB 344 — Animal Cruelty
by Senator Rich
This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.
Prepared by: Criminal Justice Committee (CJ)
The bill creates s. 828.126, F.S.
The bill prohibits, as a first-degree misdemeanor, knowingly engaging in sexual conduct or contact with an animal. Sexual conduct and sexual contact are defined in the bill. It also prohibits, with the same penalty, knowingly:
- aiding or abetting another in committing the conduct or contact;
- permitting the acts to be conducted on one’s premises; or
- organizing, promoting, participating as an observer in, or performing services to facilitate the acts for commercial or recreational purposes.
Accepted animal husbandry practices, conformation judging practices, and accepted veterinary medical practices are specifically exempted from prosecution under the bill.
If approved by the Governor, these provisions take effect October 1, 2011.
Vote: Senate 38-0; House 115-0