Bill > S504

This bill aims to prevent animal suffering by tightening regulations on irresponsible breeding practices. The key provisions include: 1) expanding the definition of a "kennel" to include residential properties with at least one dog bred on-site; 2) requiring annual inspections of kennels to ensure safe, sanitary, and humane conditions; 3) setting a minimum kennel license fee of $100 and limiting the license duration to one year; 4) requiring dog recipients to be informed of the responsibility to license the dog within two weeks; 5) increasing penalties for operating a kennel without a license or during a suspension, including potential relinquishment of the dogs; and 6) prohibiting the sale or transfer of dogs or cats under 8 weeks old (except for law enforcement or service animals) and limiting dogs to 6 litters over their lifetime.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S504