SF 435: Providing that a person does not commit animal abuse by acting in a manner consistent with customary animal practices

What it does

This bill amends a provision in Code chapter 717B, which prohibits the mistreatment of animals.2). A person commits this offense when intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly acting to inflict injury, serious injury, or death on an animal by force, violence, or poisoning. The bill provides that the offense does not include an act conducted in a manner that is consistent with customary animal husbandry practices.3A).1(1)). A number of provisions apply to exempt certain persons from the offense of animal abuse, including conduct by a veterinarian; a person acting in order to carry out another provision of law allowing such conduct; a person taking, hunting, or trapping wildlife; a person acting to defend the person or the person’s property; a local authority, such as a county, acting to destroy an animal for humane purposes; a research facility; and a commercial establishment acting to care for an animal in accordance with an applicable standard of care.

Senate subcommittee · named February 24, 2021

• Sen. Ken Rozenboom (R) · ken.rozenboom@legis.iowa.gov
• Sen. Mark Costello (R) · mark.costello@legis.iowa.gov
• Sen. Kevin Kinney (D)

Lobbying · 3 for, 5 against

For: Cedar Rapids Kennel Association; Des Moines Kennel Club, Inc.; Samoyed Club of Iowa

Against: Animal Rescue League Iowa, Inc.; Iowa Pet Alliance; Iowa Veterinary Medical Association; Stray Dog Policy, Inc.; The Humane Society of the United States

In plain words

1. February 23, 2021Filed in the Senate and sent to the Agriculture committee
2. February 24, 2021Senate subcommittee named: Rozenboom, Costello and Kinney