Bill > H5214

This bill establishes comprehensive restrictions on parrot sales in Rhode Island, prohibiting pet stores from selling parrots obtained from breeders or brokers and instead requiring them to source parrots only from animal care facilities or animal rescue organizations. The legislation defines key terms such as "parrots" (tropical birds in the Psittaciformes order), "pet store" (retail establishments selling animals), and "animal rescue organization" (nonprofit groups dedicated to animal placement). The bill also bans the sale of parrots in public spaces like outdoor markets, roadside locations, parks, and parking lots, with specific exceptions for educational and agricultural displays. Pet stores will receive a one-year grace period to sell existing parrot inventory, and violations will result in civil fines of $1,000 per unlawful sale, with potential increased fines of $1,500 for subsequent infractions during the grace period. An advisory committee comprised of representatives from Foster Parrots, Ltd and Rhode Island Parrot Rescue will assist pet stores in implementing the new regulations and will provide an implementation status report after 18 months. The law aims to protect parrots by limiting their commercial sale and promoting adoption through animal care facilities and rescue organizations.