Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act 2020
In June 2019, the UK government announced that it would introduce a new piece of legislation to strengthen animal welfare laws. This legislation was passed into law as the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act 2020, which came into effect on June 29th, 2021.
The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act 2020 increases the maximum sentence for animal cruelty offences from six months to five years. This is a substantial increase that puts animal cruelty on par with other serious criminal offences. Previously, offenders who were found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal could only be sentenced to a maximum of six months in prison. Now, under the new legislation, offenders can receive up to five years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both.[1]
The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act 2020 covers a wide range of animal cruelty offences, including intentional harm, neglect, and abandonment. It also applies to all animals, including domestic pets, farm animals, and wild animals. This means that those who mistreat or harm animals, whether for financial gain or personal pleasure, can now be held accountable for their actions.
The new legislation also provides a greater level of protection for service animals, such as police dogs and horses. These animals are often put in harm's way in the course of their duties, and the new law recognizes the vital role they play in keeping society safe. Under the new legislation, anyone who attacks a service animal can now be sentenced to up to five years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both.[1]
External links
https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cbp-8612/