Substitute House Bill No. 6231 seeks to enhance the humane treatment of feral cats and improve the standards of animal control in the state. The bill prohibits the euthanization of feral cats unless they pose a public health risk or are severely injured, and mandates that animal control officers (ACOs) consult with animal rescue organizations when managing feral cat populations. It also allows municipalities to adopt ordinances requiring the registration of feral cat keepers, who must ensure the vaccination and sterilization of these animals. Additionally, the bill introduces penalties for cat owners whose pets cause property damage or unsanitary conditions.

Significant changes include the prohibition of individuals convicted of animal abuse or neglect from serving as ACOs, effective October 1, 2025, and the repeal of existing laws that permit ACOs to impound and dispose of certain cats. The bill also removes the "unreasonably offensive condition" clause from municipal ordinances related to cat ownership. Furthermore, it mandates the establishment of a working group within the Department of Agriculture by July 1, 2025, to develop recommendations for improving animal control practices, including enhanced training for ACOs and guidelines for collaboration with animal rescue organizations. The working group is required to report its findings to the Environment Committee by February 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Committee Bill: 22-339d, 22-332d
ENV Joint Favorable Substitute: 22-339d, 22-332d
File No. 716: 22-339d, 22-332d