Bill > S0325

This bill amends the legal definition of "hobby breeder" in Rhode Island's animal care laws to more precisely limit the number of dog or cat litters a person can breed and sell in a year. Specifically, the bill changes the existing definition to restrict hobby breeders to producing no more than two (2) litters of dogs or cats, or a combination of both, within a 365-day period. If a person exceeds this limit, they will be reclassified from a "hobby breeder" to a "breeder," which likely carries different regulatory requirements. The change aims to provide a clear, quantitative standard for distinguishing between small-scale, occasional animal breeding (hobby breeding) and more commercial breeding operations. By setting a specific numerical limit, the bill seeks to prevent individuals from operating large-scale breeding businesses under the more lenient hobby breeder classification. The bill would take effect immediately upon its passage, meaning the new litter limit would be implemented right away.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://status.rilegislature.gov/