Overview

This Bill amends the Animal Welfare Act 2006 to protect service animals from unnecessary suffering inflicted by relevant officers during their duties. It clarifies that such suffering, if caused by an officer while using the animal reasonably in the course of their work, is not considered an offense under the 2006 Act.

Description

The Bill modifies Section 4 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which addresses causing unnecessary suffering to protected animals. It adds a new clause (3A) stating that if an animal under the control of a "relevant officer" suffers during the officer's reasonable performance of duties, the suffering is not considered unnecessary if the officer isn't the defendant.

Relevant Officers

The definition of "relevant officer" includes police constables, individuals with constabulary powers, those employed for police purposes, and prison custody officers. The Secretary of State can add further categories through regulations.

Geographical Extent and Commencement

The Act applies only to England and Wales and will come into force two months after it is passed.

Government Spending

The Bill is not expected to significantly impact government spending. The main cost will likely be associated with the administrative burden of implementing the new regulations and any potential legal challenges.

Groups Affected

• Service animals: The bill aims to protect them from harm while in the course of duty.
• Police officers and other relevant officers: The law provides clarification on their potential liability regarding animal welfare during their duties.
• Prison custody officers: Similar to police officers, this group gains clarification on their liability.
• The Secretary of State: They gain authority to further define "relevant officers" via future regulations.

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