All Roll Calls
Yes: 65 • No: 6
Rhode IslandH56682025 Regular SessionHouseWALLET
AN ACT RELATING TO ANIMALS AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY -- CRUELTY TO ANIMALS .
Sponsored By: William W. O'Brien (Democratic)
Became Law
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Rhode Island bans nonmedical cat declawing
Effective upon passage, Rhode Island law protects cats by banning declawing, tendon-cutting procedures, and other changes that impair normal paw function. The ban applies to anyone performing these procedures. Procedures are allowed only when medically necessary to treat existing or recurring health problems in the claws, nail bed, or toe bones. Cosmetic reasons or making a cat easier to keep or handle do not qualify. Trimming dead claw husks and using temporary nail caps are not declawing. Violators face fines of up to $1,000.
Sponsors & Cosponsors
Sponsor
William W. O'Brien
Democratic • House
Cosponsors
There are no cosponsors for this bill.
Roll Call Votes
House vote • 6/16/2025
CRUELTY TO ANIMALS PASSAGE
Yes: 65 • No: 6
Actions Timeline
Effective without Governor's signature — Chapter 192
6/26/2025GovernorTransmitted to Governor
6/18/2025GovernorSenate passed Sub A in concurrence
6/18/2025SenatePlaced on the Senate Consent Calendar (06/18/2025)
6/16/2025SenateHouse passed Sub A
6/16/2025HousePlaced on House Calendar (06/16/2025)
6/13/2025HouseCommittee recommends passage of Sub A
6/12/2025Proposed Substitute
6/6/2025Scheduled for consideration (06/12/2025)
6/6/2025Committee recommended measure be held for further study
3/4/2025Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (03/04/2025)
2/28/2025Introduced, referred to House Judiciary
2/26/2025House
Bill Text
H5668 - As Introduced
2/26/2025
H5668 - Substitute
2/26/2025
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