2024 -- H 7639

========

LC004971

========

     STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2024

____________

A N   A C T

RELATING TO ANIMALS AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY -- CRUELTY TO ANIMALS --

ANIMALS AS SENTIENT BEINGS ACT

     

     Introduced By: Representatives Bennett, Edwards, Diaz, McNamara, Cotter, Serpa,
Shanley, Slater, Solomon, and Casimiro

     Date Introduced: February 15, 2024

     Referred To: House Judiciary

     It is enacted by the General Assembly as follows:

1

     SECTION 1. Chapter 4-1 of the General Laws entitled "Cruelty to Animals" is hereby

2

amended by adding thereto the following section:

3

     4-1-44. Animals recognized as sentient beings.

4

     (a) Animals shall be recognized as sentient beings for all purposes enumerated in title 4.

5

     (b) All reasonable actions shall be taken to prevent unnecessary pain, stress or fear by

6

animals in violation of the provisions of title 4, and to provide for the humane, ethical and

7

responsible treatment of animals.

8

     SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon passage.

========

LC004971

========

 

EXPLANATION

BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

OF

A N   A C T

RELATING TO ANIMALS AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY -- CRUELTY TO ANIMALS --

ANIMALS AS SENTIENT BEINGS ACT

***

1

     This act would classify animals as sentient beings, not property, capable of experiencing

2

pain, stress, and fear.

3

     This act would take effect upon passage.

========

LC004971

========

 

LC004971 - Page 2 of 2