H 4675 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act preventing animal cruelty

H 4675 defines "animal neglect" as failing to provide basic care (food, water, shelter, vet care) or keeping pets in unsanitary conditions. It empowers law enforcement and animal control officers to petition courts for orders when neglect is suspected, requiring owners to provide care or transferring animals to authorities. Courts must hold hearings within 10 days and can order proper care, animal removal, euthanasia (if in the animal’s best interest), or prohibit future pet ownership. This bill directly affects pet owners and those caring for companion animals, creating a streamlined court process to address neglect cases.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Nov 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Nov 3, 2025 Last action Nov 3, 2025
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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
3
Key actions
2
Committee
2
Nov 3, 2025
Lower · Passed
Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
lower
Nov 3, 2025
Lower · Passed
Reported from the committee on The Judiciary
lower
0 primary · 41 co-sponsors

Sponsors

No sponsor information available.