Mato Grosso Court strikes down animal welfare law in Novo Horizonte do Norte

The Court of Justice of Mato Grosso (TJMT) has unanimously declared Municipal Law No. 1.552/2025 of Novo Horizonte do Norte unconstitutional. The law, which was approved by the City Council and published in October 2025, aimed to establish a municipal policy for animal protection and welfare.

The legislation included several measures such as free spaying and neutering programs, annual rabies vaccinations, free animal registration, and initiatives to combat animal cruelty. However, the court ruled that while the purpose of the policy was valid, the law's structure was unconstitutional because it encroached upon the powers of the Executive Branch.

The legal challenge was brought by the Mayor of Novo Horizonte do Norte, Agenor Evangelista Junior. The court's decision, led by rapporteur Judge Carlos Alberto Alves da Rocha, noted that the law improperly dictated how municipal secretariats should operate and manage administrative obligations, which is a matter reserved for the head of the Executive.