The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 6998, aims to amend the current dog licensing requirements by changing the frequency of licensing from annually to every three years. Specifically, Section 22-338 of the general statutes will be revised to require dog owners or keepers to license their dogs, aged six months or older, by June 30th every three years, rather than annually. The bill also stipulates that the licensing fees will remain the same, with $7 for neutered or spayed dogs and $12 for unneutered or unspayed dogs, along with a $1 fee for the town clerk. Additionally, a penalty of $1 per month will be imposed for failure to procure a license.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the requirements for submitting rabies vaccination certificates. Owners or keepers must provide a rabies certificate signed by a licensed veterinarian at the time of licensing, confirming that the dog has been vaccinated and that the immunity is effective. The bill also clarifies that those exempt from rabies vaccination must submit an exemption certificate instead. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, and will also amend the temporary licensing process for unlicensed dogs acquired from a dog pound, ensuring that the same vaccination requirements apply.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 22-338