The bill seeks to enhance the regulation of commercial establishments in Iowa that possess or control non-agricultural animals by amending various sections of the Code 2025. Key changes include the reintroduction of the term "state license" into the definition of "authorization" and the establishment of a new provision allowing the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (DALS) to refuse authorization if an establishment fails to meet the required standard of care for animals. The bill also sets specific fees for the issuance and renewal of authorizations, mandates inspections during the authorization period, and outlines conditions for disciplinary actions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining records and adhering to care standards.

Additionally, the legislation increases the maximum civil penalties for violations, raising the penalty for authorized establishments from $500 to $1,000 and for unauthorized operations from $1,000 to $2,000. It introduces a compliance period of up to fifteen days for establishments to rectify housing standard violations before incurring further penalties. The bill eliminates the permit requirement for certain commercial establishments, such as breeders and dealers, replacing it with a state license requirement. It also mandates at least one annual inspection for each establishment, with reinspection fees for any additional inspections, ensuring a robust regulatory framework for animal care that is financially supported through collected penalties and fees.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 162.2, 162.2A, 162.2B, 162.10B, 162.10A, 162.10D, 162.11, 162.12A, 717B.2