Topeka ? The deliberate killing, maiming or torturing of animals would be a felony under compromise legislation worked out Tuesday by House and Senate negotiators.

Both chambers now must approve the legislation before it goes to Gov. Kathleen Sebelius.

Under that bill, those convicted must serve at least 30 days in jail and pay a fine ranging from $500 to $5,000. While in jail, they must have a psychological evaluation and complete an anger management course.

For years, humane societies and pet lovers have pushed to make the crime a felony rather than a misdemeanor. It was first inspired by the case of Scruffy, a Yorkshire terrier beaten and burned to death in Kansas City, Kan., in 1997.

Interest intensified this year because of the death in August of Magnum, a mixed-breed puppy found in a Wichita trash bin, wrapped in wire with cuts, a broken leg and chemical burns. Magnum died from his injuries.

Unintentionally neglecting an animal would remain a misdemeanor. The bill doesn’t apply extermination of insects, rats or other pests or the slaughter of livestock.