Virgina Toughens Animal Cruelty, Spay/neuter Laws
June 29, 2010: The state of Virginia, in Virginia HB281, has increased the penalties for animal cruelty, inadequate animal care and failure to spay/neuter, effective July 1, 2010.
The penalty for a second or subsequent violation of the animal care laws regarding an owner’s failure to provide adequate food, water, shelter, and adequate veterinary care has increased from a Class 4 to a Class 2 misdemeanor, now punishable by up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Previously, when a Class 4 misdemeanor, the punishment was only a fine of up to $250.00.
A second or subsequent violation related to adequate space, adequate exercise, and adequate care, treatment and transportation are increased from a Class 4 to a Class 3 misdemeanor.
Unfortunately, the increased penalites apply to a second offence. It would be better if the increased penalties were for the first offence as well.
The penalty for animal cruelty remains a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months and a $2,500 fine. But it will require a mandatory minimum of five days in jail and a prohibition on the possession and ownership of companion animals.
The civil penalty for failure to sterilize a dog or cat adopted from a releasing agency is increased from $50 to $250.
More information:
http://e-lobbyist.com/gaits/VA/HB281
http://leg1.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp504.exe?101+sum+HB281
http://leg1.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp504.exe?ses=101&typ=bil&val=HB281&Submit2=Go