NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - A new bill that would increase penalties for animal cruelty charges has been introduced in Tennessee.

SB1475 was introduced on Tuesday, and it increases the penalty for aggravated cruelty to animals from a Class E felony to a Class D felony.

Here are instructions on how to watch WSMV4 live on various platforms.

The bill also adds that juveniles who commit aggravated animal cruelty can be classified as a “serious youthful offender.”

SB1475 is sponsored by State Senator Brent Taylor (R-Memphis), while the House version of the bill, HB1444, is sponsored by Rep. John Gillespie (R-Memphis).

See Full Page