South Dakota currently has animal cruelty laws, but this bill creates a new enhanced penalty for the most severe cases. If someone commits animal cruelty in an especially cruel way—described as depraved, heinous, sadistic, or wicked—they can now be charged with a Class 4 felony instead of a lesser offense. This gives prosecutors the option to pursue more serious charges when animal abuse is particularly brutal or intentional.
Agriculture and Natural Resources Deferred to the 41st legislative day Passed, YEAS 10, NAYS 2. H.J. 33
Agriculture and Natural Resources Do Pass H.J. 33
Agriculture and Natural Resources Deferred to the 41st legislative day Passed, YEAS 10, NAYS 2. H.J. 33
Agriculture and Natural Resources Scheduled for hearing
First read in House and referred to House Agriculture and Natural Resources H.J. 316
Senate Do Pass Passed, YEAS 25, NAYS 8. S.J. 249
Judiciary Do Pass Passed, YEAS 4, NAYS 3. S.J. 19
Judiciary Scheduled for hearing S.J. 1
First read in Senate and referred to Senate Judiciary S.J. 140
Prime sponsor · Sen.
R
Prime sponsor · Rep.
R
Agriculture and Natural Resources — Deferred to the 41st legislative day
Agriculture and Natural Resources — Deferred to the 41st legislative day
Do Pass
Judiciary — Do Pass