Bill > H122

This bill proposes to add a new section to Massachusetts law that establishes regulations for pet cemeteries. The legislation defines a "pet" broadly as any domestic animal adapted to live with people, including dogs, cats, rodents, fish, birds, and other animals, and defines a "pet cemetery" as any plot of ground used for permanently burying pet remains for a fee. The bill requires pet cemetery owners to file a deed restriction at the local registry of deeds, specifically dedicating the property exclusively to pet cemetery use. Additionally, cemetery owners must maintain comprehensive records of all space purchases for pet remains. The Division of Animal Health (through its director) will be responsible for creating and implementing necessary rules and regulations to oversee these requirements. The bill is retroactive, meaning it will apply to existing pet cemeteries regardless of when they were established. This legislation aims to provide more structure and accountability for pet cemetery operations, ensuring proper documentation and land use for these memorial spaces.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H122