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SB 817 - This act modifies provisions relating to the disposition of impounded animals. Currently, any public health official or law enforcement official may seek a warrant to inspect, care for, or impound neglected or abused animals. This act instead requires that such warrant be sought by a peace officer, and requires that such warrant be signed, witnessed, and accompanied by a probable cause affidavit. Further, such warrant may also be issued if the officer believes that the animal is involved in dogfighting. Currently, an animal disposition hearing shall occur within 30 days of impoundment. Under this act, the disposition hearing shall occur within 10 days for the purpose of granting final disposition of the animal. No animal shall be sterilized prior to such hearing unless necessary to save the life or relieve the suffering of the animal. This act also sets forth requirements for animal disposition hearings, including prohibiting the disposition court from returning neglected and abused animals to their owners, stating that the disposition judgment shall be final and appealable, and stating that the animal owner shall not be responsible for such animal’s care if the disposition court finds that the animal was unlawfully impounded. If the court does not return the animal to its owner, the owner may prevent disposition of the animal by posting a reasonable bond for the animal's care while the person appeals the court's disposition judgment. This act also sets forth timelines for bond and security posting. An owner is also allowed to file a personalized animal care plan with the court, in addition reasonable bond or security, under this act. This act is similar to SB 331 (2017) and HB 384 (2017). KAYLA HAHN
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