An Act relative to establishing an animal abuse registry

This bill establishes a statewide registry in Massachusetts to track individuals convicted of animal abuse crimes. Under the new law, anyone aged 18 or older found guilty of violating animal cruelty statutes must register with the Department of Criminal Justice Information Services within ten days of their conviction or release from prison. The registry will collect personal details such as the offender's name, address, crime description, and a photograph, and the registrant must pay an annual $50 fee to cover administrative costs. Convicted individuals must update their information if their address changes or submit an annual update, with the registration requirement lasting for five years or longer if additional convictions occur.