Bill > S1322

This bill aims to protect the health and safety of puppies and kittens in cities and towns. The key provisions are: 1. It prohibits the sale or offering for sale of puppies or kittens under 8 weeks of age, with a fine of $100 per violation. 2. It excludes dogs and cats from the definition of "livestock" under existing law. 3. It requires commercial boarding or training kennels, commercial breeder kennels, and personal kennels/catteries with 5 or more sexually-intact female dogs/cats to obtain a license from the state, in addition to any local kennel/cattery license. 4. It directs the state to promulgate rules and regulations for the care and housing of dogs and cats in these facilities, including requirements for staff training, injury reporting, and public inspection reports. 5. It strengthens the inspection and enforcement powers of local authorities over kennels and catteries. 6. It prohibits the sale, exchange, or display of dogs and cats in public outdoor settings, with fines for violations, while exempting shelters, rescue organizations, and certain educational/exhibition events.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S1322