Committee Bill No. 5112 seeks to enhance animal welfare by prohibiting pet stores from purchasing or procuring dogs, cats, and rabbits for sale or transfer, effective October 1, 2025. The bill introduces new legal language that mandates pet shop licensees to refrain from auctioning, bartering, selling, leasing, or transferring these animals, while allowing them to provide space for licensed animal shelters or humane societies to showcase animals for adoption under specific conditions. Violations of this provision would incur a fine of up to five hundred dollars. Additionally, the bill amends Section 22-344 of the general statutes, revising the licensing process for commercial kennels and pet shops, including fee structures and compliance with municipal zoning regulations, while establishing a regulatory framework for maintaining a list of animals deemed injurious to public health and safety.

The bill also introduces new regulations for animal importers and shelters, requiring registration with the Commissioner of Agriculture and imposing fees for compliance. It clarifies the definition of "animal importer," removes previous exemptions for those selling to licensed pet shops, and mandates that no individual or private entity can operate an animal shelter without proper registration. Furthermore, the bill outlines consumer rights regarding the sale of dogs and cats, including reimbursement for veterinary costs, and requires pet shops to maintain records of veterinary examinations for animals sold. Overall, the bill aims to improve transparency, accountability, and animal welfare standards in the pet retail industry while addressing concerns related to the treatment of animals in commercial settings.

Statutes affected:
Committee Bill: 22-344, 22-344b, 22-344d, 22-344e