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PS 963

Para enmendar la Ley Núm. 154 de 4 de agosto de 2008, según enmendada, conocida como “Ley para el Bienestar y la Protección de los Animales”, añadiendo un nuevo Artículo 20 que ordene la realización de campañas periódicas (tres veces al año) de acopio de alimentos y artículos de cuidado para animales callejeros (perros y gatos), con distribución exclusiva a santuarios, rescatistas y organizaciones sin fines de lucro a través de la Oficina Estatal de Control Animal (OECA) y el Negociado de la Policía de Puerto Rico; y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico requires three annual animal supply collection campaigns annually, distributed by state authorities to nonprofits and rescues serving stray dogs and cats.

Remitido a la Comisión de Reglas y Calendario del Senado
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Bill Summary · PS 963

Legislative bill overview

Bill PS 963 amends Puerto Rico's Animal Welfare and Protection Law by adding a requirement for three annual collection campaigns of food and care supplies for stray dogs and cats. These collected materials would be distributed exclusively to animal sanctuaries, rescue organizations, and non-profit groups through the State Animal Control Office (OECA) and Puerto Rico Police Department.

Why is this important

Stray animal populations in Puerto Rico represent a significant public health and animal welfare challenge. This bill provides a structured, recurring mechanism to support grassroots animal rescue efforts without requiring direct government expenditure on supplies, instead leveraging community donations through organized campaigns.

Potential points of contention

  • Resource allocation and enforcement: The bill mandates three annual campaigns but does not specify funding, staffing, or enforcement mechanisms if OECA fails to execute campaigns, raising questions about implementation viability.
  • Distribution oversight and accountability: Criteria for selecting which organizations receive materials are not detailed, potentially creating disputes about fairness and eligibility among rescue groups.
  • Police department involvement: Assigning animal supply collection duties to the Police Department may be seen as mission creep or an inefficient use of law enforcement resources better suited to dedicated agencies.

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

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