Modifies provisions relating to abuse and neglect reporting, including a requirement to report companion animal abuse

HB 1513 expands mandatory abuse and neglect reporting requirements to include companion animal abuse. It requires professionals who already report human abuse/neglect (such as healthcare workers, social workers, animal control officers, and humane investigators) to also report suspected animal abuse. The bill mandates that these professionals complete at least one hour of training covering how to identify animal abuse, how to report it, and the connection between adult abuse and animal abuse. This training must be provided during work hours by the Department of Health and Senior Services. The law applies specifically to individuals with direct contact with vulnerable adults in their professional roles.