Investigations conducted, when
The state veterinarian or an animal welfare official can investigate any place or vehicle where animals might be, either on their own or because someone filed a complaint. If they find a rule or law was broken, the person responsible gets called to a hearing. After the hearing, if a violation is found, the official can order the person to fix the problem and can charge a fine up to $1,000 per violation. When deciding the fine amount, they look at how serious the violation was and how much harm was done. Any fines collected go into the state's general fund. If the person won't or can't fix the problem in time, they can also be charged for the cost of fixing it. Someone who disagrees with the decision has the right to appeal it.
273.333. Investigations conducted, when — violations, — for remedial by — penalties, amount — penalties, in — s, procedure. — The or an , upon his own or upon the of any person, may institute an investigation including the inspection during normal business hours of any or vehicle upon which any animal is or may be found, and may determine if any violation of sections 273.325 to 273.357 or of any sections 273.325 to 273.357 is to exist. The , or his , may an order to the person responsible for the violation to appear at an . The director, or his designee, upon a finding that such a violation occurred after a thereon, shall issue in the circuit courts of this state to correct such violations, and in addition may an in an amount not to exceed one thousand dollars for each violation. In assessing the amount of under sections 273.327 to 273.342, the director shall take into account the seriousness of the violation and the extent of damage to third parties and the state. All penalties collected shall be deposited to the state . In addition, the director may assess the reasonable costs of remedying a violation in the event that the person responsible is unwilling or unable to correct the violation within a reasonable period of time. Any by the decision of the director may appeal as provided in sections 536.100 to 536.140.
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Source & history notes
(L. 1992 S.B. 636 § 2 subsec. 5)
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