House Bill 1481 establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for dog breeding in Florida by creating Part III of Chapter 585, titled "Dog Breeding." The bill mandates that dog breeders register with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, obtain annual certificates of registration and inspection, and adhere to specific care standards. It requires that breeding female dogs be microchipped and that retail establishments selling dogs comply with registration and inspection requirements. The Department is empowered to enforce compliance through inspections, penalties for violations, and the creation of a publicly accessible database of registered breeders and facilities. The bill also prohibits the transfer of dogs in certain public locations unless specific conditions are met and outlines civil and criminal penalties for non-compliance.

Additionally, the bill grants the department the authority to revoke or suspend breeder certificates and confiscate dogs pending hearings or appeals, with breeders responsible for boarding costs during this period. It specifies that administrative fines must include the amount and a payment deadline of no more than 15 days, with daily fines for non-compliance. Criminal penalties are introduced for breeders who operate after their registration is revoked, with first offenses classified as misdemeanors and subsequent offenses as felonies. The bill clarifies that violators are subject to administrative fines and includes provisions for enforcement in cases of repeated violations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1481 Filed: 585.007