The proposed bill establishes a new regulatory framework for dog breeding in Florida by creating Part III of Chapter 585, titled "Dog Breeding." It outlines the responsibilities of dog breeders and the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, requiring breeders to obtain an annual certificate of registration and to display their registration and inspection certificates prominently. The bill mandates that breeding female dogs be microchipped and sets specific registration and inspection requirements for retail establishments selling dogs. Additionally, it empowers the Department to adopt rules regarding care standards for breeding facilities, conduct inspections, and enforce compliance through penalties, including the suspension or revocation of certificates.

The legislation introduces new penalties for violations, categorizing offenses based on frequency, with first offenses classified as misdemeanors of the first degree and subsequent offenses as felonies of the third degree. It also allows law enforcement agencies to collaborate with the Department for reimbursement of enforcement costs. Furthermore, the bill amends section 585.007 of the Florida Statutes to clarify that violations will incur administrative fines in the Class III category for each offense, with potential for further actions for repeated violations. These changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1830 Filed: 585.007