Bill > AB631

This bill requires animal shelters (defined as public or private animal control agencies, societies for the prevention of cruelty to animals shelters, and humane society shelters) to collect and record detailed information about the animals they handle, including the number of animals taken in (categorized by dogs, cats, and other animals), the source of intake (such as strays, owner surrenders, or transfers), and the outcomes for these animals (like adoptions, returns to owners, transfers, euthanasia, deaths in care, or dead upon arrival). These shelters must update this information at least quarterly and make it publicly accessible: those with websites must post the data online for at least five years, while those without websites must make the information available upon request for the same period. The bill encourages rescue groups to voluntarily comply with these reporting requirements and suggests that the data be shared in a downloadable spreadsheet format. The legislation stems from a recognition of the important role animal shelters play in addressing pet overpopulation and promoting animal welfare, and aims to provide transparency that can help evaluate and improve animal care policies. If the state determines that implementing these requirements creates additional costs for local agencies, the state will provide reimbursement according to existing government procedures.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB631