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HB 2158

Relating to removal of a sunset clause for the West Virginia spay and neuter program

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Sarah Drennan and 9 co-sponsors

House Bill 2158 removes sunset clauses on pet food registration fees, ensuring ongoing funding for spay and neuter services, benefiting animal welfare in West Virginia.

Referred to Rules on 3rd reading
#agriculture
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2158

Summary of House Bill 2158

Bill Number: HB 2158
Title: Relating to removal of a sunset clause for the West Virginia spay and neuter program
Status: Referred to Rules on 3rd reading
Introduced: January 29, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Agriculture

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2158 aims to amend the West Virginia Commercial Feed Law by removing the sunset clauses associated with registration fees for bulk and non-bulk pet food. The intent of this legislation is to ensure the continued funding and support of the West Virginia Spay Neuter Assistance Fund, which provides spay and neutering services through licensed veterinarians in the state.

Key Provisions

  • Removal of Sunset Clauses: The bill eliminates the expiration dates for the additional registration fees on pet food, which are currently set to expire on June 30, 2027, for bulk pet food and June 1, 2027, for non-bulk pet food.

  • Registration Fees:

    • Bulk Pet Food: An additional registration fee of $50 per product is required for pet food in packages over 10 pounds or sold in bulk.
    • Non-Bulk Pet Food: An additional registration fee of $35 per product is required for pet food packaged in 10 pounds or less.

  • Funding Allocation: The additional fees collected will continue to be deposited into the West Virginia Spay Neuter Assistance Fund, supporting spay and neutering services within the state.

Affected Parties

  • Pet Food Manufacturers and Distributors: Companies that produce or distribute pet food in West Virginia will be impacted by the ongoing registration requirements and fees.

  • Veterinarians and Animal Welfare Organizations: The bill indirectly benefits licensed veterinarians and animal welfare organizations by ensuring continued funding for spay and neuter services, which can help control pet populations and improve animal welfare.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:

    • The bill was filed on January 29, 2025, and has undergone several readings and committee reviews.
    • It was reported do pass with amendments on March 12, 2025, and has been placed on the calendar for further readings.
    • As of May 31, 2025, the bill has been re-referred to the Rules Committee, indicating ongoing discussions and potential revisions.

  • Current Status: The bill is currently on its third reading, awaiting further action from the legislature.

Conclusion

House Bill 2158 is a significant legislative effort to ensure the sustainability of the West Virginia Spay Neuter Assistance Fund by removing sunset clauses on registration fees for pet food. This bill not only impacts pet food manufacturers and distributors but also plays a crucial role in promoting animal welfare through continued funding for spay and neuter services in West Virginia.

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

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