Alberta introduces Bill 22 to modernize Animal Protection Act

Alberta’s government is proposing major updates to the Animal Protection Act for the first time in 20 years with Bill 22, the Animal Protection Amendment Act, aimed at strengthening animal welfare and enforcement across the province.The amendments modernize terms and definitions to align Alberta with other Canadian jurisdictions and give peace officers expanded powers to protect animals from distress. Inspections would extend to more locations, including boarding and grooming facilities, ensuring officers can assess animals in a wider range of settings.Penalties for offenders would also increase significantly, with maximum fines rising from $20,000 to $250,000 and the introduction of potential jail terms of up to 12 months for serious offences. The bill targets repeat offenders by improving how court orders are issued, enforced, and recognized from other provinces, making Alberta the first province to allow enforcement of orders across jurisdictions.“Bill 22 is an important step for Alberta, underscoring the province’s commitment to animal welfare,” said Agriculture Minister RJ Sigurdson.The Alberta Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, praised the bill, saying it “strengthens tools for our peace officers, better protects animals and reinforces Alberta’s leadership in animal welfare.”Megan Bergman, registrar, Alberta Veterinary Medical Association added the amendments support the veterinary profession’s mission to uphold competent and ethical care while providing the tools needed to ensure appropriate treatment for animals provincewide.The Animal Protection Act is designed to ensure basic care for all animals and enable peace officers and police to respond to cases of abandonment, distress, or neglect, with First Nations, municipalities, and industry representatives contributing to the engagement process.

Alberta introduces Bill 22 to modernize Animal Protection Act

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