The Beagle Freedom Act aims to prohibit the sale of dogs and cats bred by individuals or entities that have received specific violations from the United States Department of Agriculture. Under this act, dealers and kennels are barred from selling or offering for sale dogs or cats bred by those who have received critical violations or multiple noncritical violations within a two-year period. Additionally, the act mandates that certain persons, kennels, and animal testing facilities must offer dogs and cats for adoption if they do not need them and if the animals do not pose a health or safety risk. These entities are required to keep records of their animals and submit annual reports to the Department of Agriculture regarding the number of adoptions.
Furthermore, the act provides whistleblower protections for employees who report potential violations related to the act or existing animal welfare laws. Violations of the Beagle Freedom Act are classified as misdemeanors of the third degree, and the Department of Agriculture is authorized to create regulations necessary for its implementation. The act is set to take effect 120 days after its passage.