Animals: care and treatment; restitution for care and treatment of certain forfeited animals; impose penalties upon owner. Amends sec. 50 of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.50).

Michigan House Bill 5360, introduced by Representative Joseph Aragona on December 11, 2025, aims to strengthen animal welfare laws by:

- **Defining "adequate care"**: Ensuring animals receive sufficient food, water, shelter, sanitary conditions, exercise, and veterinary attention to maintain good health.

- **Clarifying animal control agencies**: Specifying that these include animal control shelters, animal protection shelters, and law enforcement agencies.

- **Imposing restitution requirements**: Mandating that owners reimburse shelters for the care costs of animals forfeited due to neglect.

- **Establishing penalties for violations**: Holding owners accountable for failing to provide adequate care, with specific penalties outlined.

The bill is currently under review by the House Judiciary Committee. ([legiscan.com](https://legiscan.com/MI/text/HB5360/2025?utm_source=openai))

The bill has been recognized for its potential to enhance animal welfare protections in Michigan. By defining "adequate care" and clarifying the roles of animal control agencies, it aims to provide clearer standards for animal treatment. The restitution requirement ensures that shelters are compensated for the care of forfeited animals, which could alleviate financial burdens on these organizations. The bill's introduction has been noted in legislative updates, indicating a positive reception among animal welfare advocates. ([michbar.org](https://www.michbar.org/publicpolicy/updates/2025/pp_legislation_121525?utm_source=openai))

As of now, there is no significant negative media coverage or reported opposition to House Bill 5360. The bill is still in the early stages of the legislative process, and its reception may evolve as it progresses through the committee and voting stages.