HB374 Alabama 2021 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Andrew SorrellAuditor

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2021

Title

Animals, cruelty to dogs and cats, definition of shelter, Sec. 13A-11-240 am'd.

Summary

HB374 defines 'shelter' for dogs and cats in Alabama's cruelty law to clarify when lack of shelter counts as cruelty.

What This Bill Does

It adds a formal definition of shelter to the cruelty statute, specifying that a dog or cat kept outdoors must have protection from the elements. The shelter must have a roof and sides and be large enough for the animal to enter, turn around, and lie down. The change helps determine whether depriving an animal of shelter constitutes second-degree cruelty, while keeping existing rules about cruelty definitions.

Who It Affects

• Outdoor dog or cat owners and caregivers who must provide a shelter that meets the new definition to avoid cruelty charges
• Law enforcement, animal control, and prosecutors who will apply the shelter standard when evaluating cruelty cases

Key Provisions

• Adds a specific definition of 'shelter' to Section 13A-11-240, describing an outdoor structure that protects from heat, cold, wind, and water and has a roof, sides, and enough space for the animal to enter, turn around, and lie down
• Clarifies that the shelter requirement is part of the cruelty to dogs and cats statute and relates to second-degree cruelty for depriving an animal of shelter
• Effective immediately after passage and approval by the Governor

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Animals