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HF 474

A bill for an act relating to the treatment of animals other than agricultural animals by providing for the inspection or monitoring of commercial establishments by the department of agriculture and land stewardship, and making penalties applicable.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dave Jacoby

HF 474 mandates annual inspections of commercial animal establishments, ensuring humane treatment and imposing penalties for non-compliance to protect animal welfare.

Introduced, referred to Agriculture.
#animals #canineanimals #commercialestablishments #realproperty
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Bill Summary · HF 474

Summary of Bill HF 474

Title: A bill for an act relating to the treatment of animals other than agricultural animals by providing for the inspection or monitoring of commercial establishments by the department of agriculture and land stewardship, and making penalties applicable.

Bill Number: HF 474
Introduced On: February 19, 2025
Status: Introduced, referred to Agriculture
Classification: Bill
Subject: Animals, canine animals, commercial establishments, Real Property

Purpose and Intent

Bill HF 474 aims to enhance the welfare of animals, specifically those not classified as agricultural animals, by establishing a framework for the inspection and monitoring of commercial establishments that handle these animals. The bill seeks to ensure compliance with standards of care and to impose penalties for violations, thereby promoting better treatment of animals in commercial settings.

Key Provisions

  1. Inspection and Monitoring Requirements:

    • The Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (DALS) is mandated to conduct inspections of commercial establishments that operate as commercial breeders (those holding state licenses or permits).
    • Inspections must occur at least once every 12 months, regardless of whether there is reasonable cause for concern.
    • The inspections will assess compliance with established standards of care for animals.

  2. Penalties for Non-Compliance:

    • DALS is authorized to impose civil penalties of up to $500 for violations of the relevant code chapter by commercial establishments.
    • In addition to fines, DALS has the authority to suspend or revoke the registration, state license, or permit of establishments that fail to comply with the standards.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Commercial Establishments: This includes businesses that breed or sell animals, particularly those that are not classified as agricultural animals. These establishments will be subject to regular inspections and potential penalties for non-compliance.
  • Animals: The bill directly impacts the welfare of animals in commercial settings by enforcing standards of care and ensuring that businesses adhere to humane treatment practices.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 19, 2025, and has been referred to the Agriculture committee for further consideration.
  • If passed, the bill will establish a systematic approach to monitoring animal welfare in commercial breeding environments, with specific timelines for inspections.

Conclusion

HF 474 represents a significant step towards improving the treatment of non-agricultural animals in commercial settings. By instituting regular inspections and penalties for non-compliance, the bill aims to ensure that animals are treated humanely and that commercial establishments adhere to established standards of care.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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