The bill H.841 aims to enhance animal welfare in Vermont by establishing a Division of Animal Welfare within the Department of Public Safety. It outlines the qualifications and responsibilities of the Director of Animal Welfare, who will be tasked with developing a comprehensive plan for enforcing animal welfare laws, addressing animal cruelty complaints, and coordinating with law enforcement. The bill introduces a certified rabies vaccinator program, allowing licensed veterinarians to train animal shelter staff to administer rabies vaccinations. It also requires animal shelters, rescue organizations, and breeders to register with the Division, providing information on animal intake and disposition, and establishes penalties for non-compliance.

Additionally, the bill creates an Animal Welfare Fund to support the Division's activities, funded by a percentage of revenue from surcharges, transfers from the General Assembly, and donations. It updates terminology from "spaying and neutering" to "sexual sterilization" and includes provisions for the sterilization of stray cats without known owners. The bill also introduces new licensing requirements for pet dealers and mandates that health certificates for imported animals confirm the sterilization of wolf-hybrids over four months of age. Furthermore, it sets specific advertising requirements for domestic pets and requires the Director to report on the creation of a comprehensive animal welfare program by December 15, 2026. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 20-190, 20-3581, 20-3583, 20-3682, 20-3903, 20-3907, 20-3911, 20-3915
As Passed By the House -- Official: 20-190, 20-3581, 20-3583, 20-3682, 20-3903, 20-3907, 20-3911, 20-3915, 20-3814, 20-3815, 20-3816
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 20-190, 20-3581, 20-3583, 20-3682, 20-3814, 20-3815, 20-3816, 20-3903, 20-3907, 20-3911, 20-3915