How HB 921 changes current law

AI-generated reading aid from the bill's amendatory text — verify against the official bill.

This bill mandates reporting of suspected animal cruelty by certain professionals and establishes related protections and penalties.

• 474.214

  qq) Failing to report suspected animal cruelty to the proper authorities pursuant to s. 828.124.

  It adds failing to report suspected animal cruelty as a ground for disciplinary actions against veterinarians.

• 474.2165

  However, such records may be furnished without written authorization under the following circumstances: → However, such records may be furnished without written authorization under the following circumstances: (d) In any criminal action or situation where a veterinarian suspects a criminal violation, including, but not limited to, animal cruelty.

  It clarifies that veterinarians can report suspected animal cruelty without client authorization.

• 828.124

  (1) As used in this section, the term: (a) "Animal cruelty" means any act or omission that constitutes a violation of s. 828.12, s. 828.122, s. 828.126, or s. 828.13.

  It establishes a new section defining animal cruelty and related reporting obligations.

• 828.124

  (2) All of the following individuals must report suspected, both past or ongoing, incidents of animal cruelty to a local law enforcement officer, an animal control officer certified pursuant to s. 828.27(4)(a), or an agent appointed under s. 828.03: (a) A veterinarian, if he or she has a veterinarian/client/patient relationship with the animal.

  It requires veterinarians and certain employees to report suspected animal cruelty.

• 828.124

  (3) A veterinarian, veterinary technician, or other animal treatment provider employee who makes a good faith report of animal cruelty pursuant to this section to a local law enforcement officer, an animal control officer, or an agent appointed pursuant to subsection (2) shall be held harmless from criminal liability, civil liability, professional disciplinary action, and employer retaliation.

  It provides legal protections for individuals making good faith reports.

• 828.124

  (4) A veterinarian, excluding veterinarians subject to chapter 474, a veterinary technician, or an animal treatment provider employee or volunteer, who knowingly alters or destroys a medical record for the purpose of concealing or attempting to conceal animal cruelty or who causes the same to be done, commits a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

  It creates penalties for those who alter medical records to conceal animal cruelty.