President Signed the Law on Humane Treatment of Animals

President Petro Poroshenko signed the Law of Ukraine on amendments to legislative acts regarding the introduction of humane treatment of animals.

In his letter to the Prime Minister, the President noted that the law expanded the competence of both judicial bodies and the National Police in handling cases of administrative offenses related to animal cruelty.

The President pointed out a potential issue: the lack of clear delineation of competence between government bodies could cause disputes regarding the implementation of their powers.

The head of state also emphasized the need to clarify the composition of crimes under the new version of Article 299 of the Criminal Code, which establishes punishment from five to eight years of imprisonment for animal cruelty under aggravating circumstances.

The President proposed taking immediate measures to prepare the necessary legislative proposals and submit the relevant bill for consideration by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine.