Overview
- Lawmakers approved the reform to Penal Code article 206-A with 91 votes and skipped a second vote with 90, sending the text to the Executive for promulgation.
- The law sets tiered prison terms that reach six to eight years when abuse causes an animal’s death, four to six years with aggravating factors, and up to three years for cruelty or abandonment.
- Aggravating factors now include use of weapons, fire or poison, prolonged torture or sadism, group participation, recording or online sharing of the act, and injuries that destroy senses or major organs.
- The reform adds fines and formal bans on keeping animals and increases liability for people in custodial roles such as veterinarians, trainers, police and municipal guards.
- Supporters say the overhaul answers viral cases and concerns that animal abuse tracks with other violence, and a sponsor urged immediate presidential promulgation.