The bill amends Section 585.713 of the Florida Statutes to establish new requirements for dog breeders regarding registration and renewal fees. It mandates that each dog breeder must apply for a certificate of registration with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, accompanied by a registration fee determined by the department. Additionally, the bill specifies that the annual renewal of the certificate must also include a fee, which cannot exceed $500. The department is required to notify certificate holders of the renewal fee at least 60 days prior to the renewal date.
Furthermore, the bill allows the department to impose penalties for late filings, capped at $500, but provides for potential extensions of the renewal date without penalty for up to 90 days under certain circumstances, such as natural disasters or hardships. The legislation also maintains the requirement for dog breeders to display their certificates of registration and inspection in a publicly visible location. The act is set to take effect concurrently with HB 1481 or similar legislation, contingent upon its adoption in the same legislative session.