Maryland § 2-313.1
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 2-313.1, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 2-313.1.
(a) A veterinary practitioner who has reason to believe that an animal that has been treated by the veterinary practitioner has been subjected to cruelty or fighting in violation of § 10–604, § 10–606, § 10–607, or § 10–608 of the Criminal Law Article shall report the suspected animal cruelty or animal fighting to the appropriate law enforcement agency or county animal control agency in a timely manner.
(b) A veterinary practitioner who makes a report under subsection (a) of this section shall include in the report:
(1) The name, age, and location of the animal;
(2) The name and home address of the owner or custodian of the animal;
(3) The nature and extent of the suspected animal cruelty or animal fighting, including any evidence or information available to the veterinary practitioner concerning possible previous instances of animal cruelty or animal fighting; and
(4) Any other information that would help determine:
(i) The cause of the suspected animal cruelty or animal fighting; and
(ii) The identity of any individual responsible for the suspected animal cruelty or animal fighting.
(c) A veterinary practitioner who reports in good faith suspected animal cruelty or animal fighting or participates in an investigation of suspected animal cruelty or animal fighting is immune from:
(1) Civil liability that results from the report or participation in the investigation; or
(2) Criminal prosecution for the report or participation in the investigation.
(d) The Board shall adopt regulations establishing:
(1) Confidentiality procedures for protecting the identity of the veterinary practitioner making a report under this section;
(2) Confidentiality procedures for protecting the substance of a report made under this section and any records associated with the report; and
(3) Conditions under which the substance of a report may be disclosed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 2-313.1
What does Maryland Code § 2-313.1 cover?
Section 2-313.1 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maryland § 2-313.1?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 2-313.1" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maryland law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.
How does Maryland § 2-313.1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.