Bill > HB262

This bill modifies the existing dog licensing regulations by allowing owners of 7 or fewer dogs to obtain a group license, with several key changes. The group license will now cost $28, with $2 going to a companion animal neutering fund and $18 retained by the municipality. If an owner has more than 7 dogs, they must obtain individual licenses for additional dogs, with a supplemental fee calculated based on the number of dogs beyond 7. The bill introduces a new requirement that group license holders cannot sell, gift, or trade any dog before obtaining a specific license for that dog. The group license can only be used for up to 7 dogs, and town clerks are obligated to issue the license to owners who meet the requirements. No licensing fee will be required for dogs under 7 weeks old. Owners will still receive numbered license tags for each dog under their group license. The changes aim to provide more flexibility for dog owners while also ensuring proper licensing and potentially supporting animal population control efforts. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and is expected to have a minimal fiscal impact of less than $10,000 annually.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_docket.aspx?lsr=0537&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB262