The State Duma’s Ecology, Natural Resources, and Environmental Protection Committee has drafted a bill that proposes fines reaching up to 100,000 rubles for acts of animal cruelty. The proposal, reported by News newspaper, cites Vladimir Burmatov, First Deputy Chairman of the committee, as the author of the initiative.
Burmatov noted that the measure would require a separate article in the Code of Administrative Offenses to cover cruelty to animals. The draft suggests penalties including fines of up to 30,000 rubles for harsh, violent appeals to animals, and the possibility of administrative detention for as long as 15 days with the removal of the pet. For government agencies and legal entities, the proposed penalties rise to 15,000 rubles and 100,000 rubles, respectively.
Additionally, the bill calls for distinct sanctions aimed at the production and distribution of propaganda material that promotes cruelty to animals. The proposed fines would be up to 20,000 rubles for individuals, 25,000 rubles for officials, and as much as 100,000 rubles for legal entities.
On June 29, Burmatov stated that the bill would amend the Code of Administrative Offenses to authorize the confiscation of domestic and wild animals from owners who cruelly treat them.
Earlier, the Russian President signed a law increasing penalties for abandoned pets. The discussion surrounding the draft has intensified in recent months, with lawmakers outlining a broader framework to deter mistreatment and to ensure animal welfare across the country.
There have been previous proposals in Russia to raise fines for dog bites up to 200,000 rubles, reflecting ongoing efforts to address public safety and animal protection in tandem. The current legislative push seeks to formalize consequences and close gaps in enforcement, balancing penalties with enforcement mechanisms and the confiscation option as a potential deterrent.