Overview

The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill increases the maximum sentence for animal welfare offences in England and Wales. It amends the Animal Welfare Act 2006 to allow for harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences, for those convicted of cruelty to animals.

Description

This Bill modifies Section 32 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which deals with penalties for animal cruelty. The key change is increasing the maximum sentence available for convictions. Currently, the maximum sentence is six months imprisonment on summary conviction (a less serious court process). This Bill increases this to 12 months imprisonment on summary conviction. Furthermore, the bill introduces the option of conviction on indictment (a more serious court process) with a maximum sentence of 5 years imprisonment for these offences. The amendments will not apply to offences committed before the act comes into force. The Act applies to England and Wales only and will come into force two months after it is passed.

Government Spending

The Bill is not expected to have a significant direct impact on government spending. The costs associated with increased prosecutions and potential prison sentences will need to be considered by relevant government departments, but no figures are currently provided.

Groups Affected

• Individuals convicted of animal welfare offences: They will face potentially much harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences.
• Animal welfare charities and organizations: They may see an increase in successful prosecutions leading to increased protection of animals.
• The judiciary: They will need to apply the new sentencing guidelines.
• Law enforcement agencies: They will be tasked with enforcing the increased penalties.

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