Bill > HB1976

This bill introduces new requirements for retail pet stores selling animals or aquatic plants to provide customers with informational pamphlets about invasive species and responsible pet ownership. The bill defines key terms such as "animal" (any non-human living creature), "aquatic invasive species," and "retail pet store," and mandates that these businesses distribute educational materials prepared by the Washington Invasive Species Council. The pamphlets must cover critical information including the threats invasive species pose to native ecosystems, the potential environmental dangers of releasing non-native animals without natural predators, responsible ways to rehome unwanted pets or dispose of aquatic plant materials, resources for identifying invasive species, and state laws prohibiting the possession or transport of prohibited invasive species. By requiring this educational outreach, the bill aims to increase public awareness about the potential ecological harm that can result from carelessly releasing pets or aquatic plants into natural environments, ultimately helping to protect local ecosystems from invasive species.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1976&Year=2025&Initiative=false