This bill aims to prohibit certain surgical procedures for declawing cats, specifically onychectomy, partial or complete phalangectomy, and tendonectomy, unless performed for a therapeutic purpose. A therapeutic purpose is defined as addressing a physical medical condition that compromises the cat's health, such as an illness or injury, and does not include cosmetic or convenience reasons.
Violators of this law would face civil fines, with a first offense resulting in a fine of up to $2,500 and subsequent offenses incurring fines of up to $5,000. The enforcement of this law would be the responsibility of the county prosecutor or the attorney general, allowing for legal action against those who perform these prohibited procedures without a valid therapeutic reason.