Bill > SB1023

This bill establishes the Spay and Neuter Special Fund to address animal overpopulation in Hawaii by creating multiple funding mechanisms and an administrative framework to reduce pet and free-roaming cat populations. The bill creates a new special fund in the state treasury that can receive money from state income tax refund designations (where taxpayers can choose to donate $5 from their refund), fundraising fees from special number plates designed to recognize animal spaying and neutering, and other sources like legislative appropriations and private donations. An advisory committee consisting of five members from various animal welfare and veterinary organizations will help establish eligibility criteria for fund expenditures, which will primarily support spaying and neutering surgeries and associated veterinary care. The bill also authorizes the creation of special number plates that will generate additional revenue for the fund, with specific design requirements and provisions for potential plate revocation if minimal participation occurs. Additionally, the bill appropriates funds to county governments to support local pet population reduction efforts, with the advisory committee required to submit annual reports detailing fund disbursements. The overall goal is to humanely reduce animal overpopulation, decrease euthanasia rates, and improve animal welfare in Hawaii.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1023&year=2025