DETROIT – Michigan lawmakers are close to joining 16 other states by making it illegal to keep an animal in a car.
Michigan's law would make it a felony to keep an animal in a car in conditions that might endanger its health.
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The law would impose some of the strictest penalties for endangering an animal's life.
If an animal dies inside a vehicle, the person could face up to five years in jail or a fine up to $5,000.
If the animal is injured, the person could face up to one year in jail, or a fine of up to $1,000.
Without injury, first offenders could get fined $350, and second-time offenders up to $500, both including the possibility of jail time.Â
Most of the 16 states who already outlaw this are classified as misdemeanor offenses.Â
The bills were introduced in the state senate last week, and are being considered by the judiciary committee.
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