Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7562

Introduced
2/6/26  
Refer
2/6/26  
Report Pass
4/15/26  
Engrossed
4/30/26  

Caption

Allows animal control officers in the cities and towns to lawfully take charge of and provide adequate care to any animal found abandoned or neglected or hazardously accumulated and includes them as agents authorized to enforce the provisions of this law.

Impact

The implications of H7562 on state laws are significant, particularly in the realm of animal welfare. The bill stipulates that owners or guardians of animals taken under the provisions of the bill may forfeit their ownership rights if convicted of certain offenses, such as abandonment or cruelty. This adds a legal incentive for pet owners to maintain the proper care of their animals, thereby promoting responsible pet ownership. Additionally, animal control officers will be better equipped to intervene in potential cases of animal mistreatment.

Summary

House Bill H7562 aims to amend existing laws regarding the care and treatment of animals within the state of Rhode Island. It grants animal control officers the authority to take charge of and provide care for animals that are found to be abandoned, neglected, or in hazardous conditions. This bill is part of a legislative effort to enhance animal welfare by ensuring that such animals receive appropriate care in a timely manner. If passed, the bill would also empower these officers as agents able to enforce relevant provisions intended to protect animals from cruelty.

Contention

One notable contention surrounding this bill includes the potential for increased governmental intervention in pet ownership, which may raise concerns among pet owners about how their rights could be affected. Some may argue that the definition of neglect and adequate care could lead to subjective enforcement, resulting in potential injustices toward responsible pet owners. The balance between animal welfare and the rights of pet owners is expected to be a topic of debate among lawmakers and constituents alike.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0550

Allows animal control officers in the cities and towns to lawfully take charge of and provide adequate care to any animal found abandoned or neglected or hazardously accumulated and would increase penalties for malicious injury to or killing of animals.

RI H6407

Allows animal control officers in the cities and towns to lawfully take charge of and provide adequate care to any animal found abandoned or neglected or hazardously accumulated and would increase penalties for malicious injury to or killing of animals.

RI S0551

Allows seizure and rehoming of animals prior to criminal charges being heard.

RI H5128

Makes any offense under this statute that could result in the death of an animal punishable by up to 3 years in prison, a fine of at least $1,000, or both, for each offense.

RI H5214

Bans the sale of parrots at pet stores from a breeder or broker. The pet store may sell parrots obtained from animal care facilities or animal rescue organizations. The sale would also be prohibited at any outdoor markets or retail parking lots.

RI S0398

Bans the sale of parrots at pet stores from a breeder or broker. The pet store may sell parrots obtained from animal care facilities or animal rescue organizations. The sale would also be prohibited at any outdoor markets or retail parking lots.

RI H5666

Mandates arming campus police at public higher educational institutions and includes campus police in the definition of "law enforcement officer" for the purposes of the "Law Enforcement Officers' Bill of Rights."

RI S1086

Provides technical amendments to the chapters on subdivision of land and zoning ordinances for towns and cities.

RI H5794

Provides technical amendments to the chapters on subdivision of land and zoning ordinances for towns and cities.

RI H5797

Adds a definition for "co-living housing" to the zoning ordinance provisions of the general laws and would include such housing as a special provision to be included in a zoning ordinance.

Similar Bills

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NJ A969

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CA AB2283

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TX SB2342

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MI HB4634

Probate: guardians and conservators; appointment; modify procedure. Amends secs. 5303, 5304, 5306, 5306a, 5312 & 5416 of 1998 PA 386 (MCL 700.5303 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4632'25, HB 4633'25, HB 4635'25

IL HB2562

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NJ S3600

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MI HB4633

Probate: guardians and conservators; duties of guardians, conservators, and guardians ad litem; modify. Amends secs. 5305, 5314, 5406, 5417 & 5418 of 1998 PA 386 (MCL 700.5305 et seq.) & adds sec. 5314a. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4632'25, HB 4634'25, HB 4635'25