This bill amends various sections of Code chapter 162, which regulates commercial establishments that possess or control nonagricultural animals, particularly dogs and cats. A significant change is the redefinition of "commercial breeder," which now excludes individuals who own or harbor six or fewer breeding males or females. The bill also removes references to "boarding kennels," consolidating definitions and requirements for commercial establishments like animal shelters, commercial breeders, and pet shops. Additionally, it introduces a tiered inspection system based on risk factors, allowing the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (DALS) to conduct both scheduled and unscheduled inspections.

The bill establishes new penalties for violations, including civil penalties for refusal to allow inspections and interference with inspections, and it grants DALS the authority to suspend or revoke authorizations for non-compliant commercial establishments. It clarifies that establishments operating without proper authorization face higher penalties. Furthermore, the bill increases the threshold for what constitutes a commercial breeder from more than three to more than six dogs or cats and eliminates the classification of boarding kennels as regulated commercial establishments. DALS is also tasked with conducting timely inspections and enforcing compliance to enhance animal welfare in commercial settings.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 162.2, 162.2A, 162.4A, 162.5, 162.6, 162.7, 162.8, 162.9A, 162.10B, 162.10A, 162.11, 162.12, 162.12A, 162.19, 717A.1, 162.5A