Substitute House Bill No. 6240 aims to enhance the health and welfare of animals sold at pet stores by extending the look-back period for violations by breeders from two years to three years. This means that pet shop licensees must ensure that any dogs or cats they purchase for resale come from breeders who have not committed direct violations of United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulations or three or more indirect violations related to animal health or welfare within the past three years. The bill imposes a fine of up to $1,000 for each violation, with each day of continued violation counting as a separate offense.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the Commissioner of Agriculture submit an annual report to the Environment Committee by February 1, detailing the place of origin for all animals sold by pet shop licensees in the previous year and the number and nature of violations issued by the Department of Agriculture. This report is intended to increase transparency and accountability in the pet retail industry. The effective date for these changes is set for October 1, 2025.