An Act providing for prohibited and required actions regarding pet shop-kennels for dogs, cats and rabbits; imposing duties on the Department of Agriculture; and imposing penalties.
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This act, the Pet Shop-Kennel Act, aims to improve animal welfare standards in Pennsylvania by regulating pet shops and kennels that sell or house dogs, cats, and rabbits. It prohibits the issuance of new licenses for these establishments after December 31, 2026, and requires existing operators to cease acquiring new animals by January 1, 2027. The Department of Agriculture will have duties related to overseeing compliance and imposing penalties for violations.
Key provisions
- Prohibits the issuance or renewal of pet shop-kennel licenses after December 31, 2026, for dogs and cats/rabbits.
- Requires existing pet shop-kennels to cease acquiring new animals by January 1, 2027.
- Mandates inspections of kennels by State dog wardens and police officers.
- Establishes administrative penalties of up to $500 per day for each violation.
- Classifies violations as a third-degree misdemeanor.
- Defines key terms such as ‘boarding kennel,’ ‘pet shop-kennel,’ and ‘rescue network kennel.’
- Assigns duties to the Department of Agriculture regarding licensing and enforcement.
- Requires the Department to issue or renew licenses for cats and rabbits before January 1, 2027.
Who is affected
- Pet shop owners and operators
- Animal shelters and humane societies
- Dog, cat, and rabbit breeders
- The Department of Agriculture
- Pennsylvania residents who purchase pets
Bill text
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Document of record
- Version
- Pn 1462 Html
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Sponsors
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9 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
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