HD 336 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act relative to a temporary possession ban of animals for animal abusers

This bill creates a mandatory 5-year ban on owning or accessing animals for first-time animal cruelty offenders (convicted under specific sections of Chapter 272 or 266), and a 15-year ban for repeat offenders, or as the court determines. It also applies to individuals charged with animal-related offenses who are placed on probation without a finding. The ban prohibits owning, fostering, working with animals in shelters/veterinary clinics, or volunteering at animal facilities. Violating the ban results in forfeiting animal custody and potential fines, with offenders allowed to petition the court annually to reduce the ban if they demonstrate safety and completion of required classes.
Bill status Introduction 0 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor