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MD HB445

MD HB445
Animal Welfare - Declawing Cats - Prohibited Acts


summary

Introduced
01/23/2020
In Committee
01/23/2020
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
03/18/2020

Introduced Session

2020 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Prohibiting a veterinary practitioner from performing certain declawing procedures on a cat unless the procedure is necessary for a therapeutic purpose; requiring the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners to refuse, suspend, or revoke any application or license, and censure or place on probation any licensee after a hearing if the veterinary practitioner fails to comply with the prohibition; prohibiting a person from performing certain declawing procedures on a cat; etc.

AI Summary

This bill prohibits veterinary practitioners from performing declawing procedures on cats, unless the procedure is necessary for a therapeutic purpose. It requires the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners to refuse, suspend, or revoke the license of any veterinarian who fails to comply with this prohibition. The bill also establishes civil penalties for any person who performs a declawing procedure on a cat, except as allowed for therapeutic purposes. The key terms "declawing procedure" and "therapeutic purpose" are defined in the legislation. This bill aims to protect the welfare of cats by restricting the practice of declawing, which can be painful and harmful to the animals.

Committee Categories

Transportation and Infrastructure

Sponsors (14)

Last Action

Hearing 2/19 at 1:00 p.m. (on 01/28/2020)

bill text


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