Substitute House Bill No. 6231 seeks to enhance the humane treatment of feral cats and establish new regulations for animal control officers (ACOs). The bill prohibits the euthanization of feral cats unless they pose a public health risk or are irreparably injured, requiring ACOs to consult with animal rescue organizations when managing these populations. It also mandates municipalities to adopt ordinances for the registration of feral cat keepers, who must ensure the vaccination and sterilization of the animals. The bill repeals existing laws that allowed ACOs to impound and dispose of certain cats, particularly those causing property damage or unsanitary conditions, and removes the "unreasonably offensive condition" clause from municipal ordinances.

Additionally, the bill establishes a working group within the Department of Agriculture to develop recommendations for improving animal control practices, including enhanced training for ACOs and guidelines for collaboration with animal rescue organizations. This group will consist of representatives from various sectors and is required to hold public forums, reporting its findings to the Environment Committee by February 1, 2026. The bill also disqualifies individuals convicted of animal abuse or neglect from serving as ACOs, with this provision taking effect on October 1, 2025. Overall, the legislation aims to promote humane treatment of feral cats while ensuring accountability among those responsible for animal control.

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