Increases penalties for a second or subsequent offense with a fine of not less than $500 or no more than $2,500 and up to 2 years imprisonment, for violating the law on the care of dogs.

Rhode Island Bill Summary: Increased Penalties for Repeat Dog Care Violations

This bill would increase the legal penalties for people who repeatedly violate Rhode Island's laws on the proper care of dogs. Under this proposal, anyone caught breaking dog care rules for a second time or more could face a fine ranging from $500 to $2,500 and potentially up to two years in prison. The bill focuses specifically on repeat offenders, meaning these harsher consequences would only kick in after a person has already been found guilty of a dog care violation at least once before.

Rhode Island already has laws on the books that outline how dogs must be cared for, covering things like providing adequate food, water, shelter, and veterinary attention. This bill does not change those underlying rules — it simply raises the stakes for people who continue to break them after a first offense. The current penalties for repeat violations would be replaced with this new, stricter range of consequences.

This bill would most directly affect pet owners, breeders, kennel operators, or anyone else responsible for the care of dogs in Rhode Island who has previously been cited for a violation. Animal control officers, courts, and prosecutors would also be impacted, as they would be responsible for enforcing and applying the new penalty structure. The bill has been introduced and referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee, where it will be reviewed before any further action is taken.