It is enacted by the General Assembly as follows:

SECTION 1. Chapter 4-1 of the General Laws entitled "Cruelty to Animals" is hereby amended by adding thereto the following section:

4-1-37. Immunity from suit. -- Any Rhode Island licensed veterinarian shall be held harmless from either criminal or civil liability arising out of any reports, either oral or written, made to local and/or state police, animal control officials or officers of private organizations devoted to humane treatment of animals, any animal that the veterinarian knows or reasonably believed to be abandoned, neglected or abused and shall be immune from suit by reason of making the report. Provided, however, that a veterinarian who participates or reports in bad faith or with malice shall not be protected under the provisions of this section.

SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon passage.