Missouri's House Bill 910, introduced by Representative Mayhew on January 16, 2025, aims to strengthen the state's stance against animal abuse while also addressing the issue of false reporting. Dubbed "Brown's Law" in honor of veterinarian Senator Doc Brown, the bill seeks to repeal existing legislation and replace it with two new sections that impose penalties for malicious false reports of animal abuse.

The bill defines the offense of making a malicious false report as knowingly reporting animal abuse to law enforcement with the intent to disrupt or harass the animal's owner. If passed, this offense would be classified as a class C misdemeanor, carrying potential penalties for those who misuse the reporting system. Notably, the legislation includes a provision that allows for an absolute defense if the report was made in good faith, emphasizing the importance of protecting genuine concerns while deterring malicious actions.

The introduction of House Bill 910 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and animal rights advocates. Proponents argue that the bill is essential for safeguarding animal owners from harassment and financial loss due to false allegations. Critics, however, express concerns about the potential chilling effect on legitimate reports of animal abuse, fearing that individuals may hesitate to report suspected abuse for fear of legal repercussions.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its implications could resonate beyond animal welfare, touching on broader issues of legal accountability and the balance between protecting individuals and encouraging responsible reporting. The outcome of House Bill 910 will likely set a precedent for how Missouri addresses both animal protection and the integrity of reporting systems in the future.