Bill > H2256

This bill enhances regulations surrounding the sale and care of cats, dogs, and rabbits in the Commonwealth, establishing comprehensive requirements for pet shops, breeders, brokers, and rescue organizations. The bill mandates that all pets sold must be accompanied by detailed health records and official health certificates, and prohibits the sale of animals under 8 weeks old. Sellers must maintain records verifying the animal's origin, including USDA license information, and must post clear signage with details about each animal's age, identifying characteristics, and breeder information. The legislation introduces strict guidelines about the health and fitness of animals for sale, allowing buyers to return or seek remedies if an animal is found to have pre-existing health conditions or congenital defects. Additionally, the bill requires all sold animals to be microchipped and registered with the purchaser's contact information, and imposes restrictions on where animals can be sold, prohibiting sales from roadsides, public spaces, parking lots, and other non-regulated venues. Violations of these provisions can result in fines up to $500 per animal, and each sale in violation is considered a separate offense. The new regulations aim to protect consumers and ensure the health and proper tracking of companion animals, with the law set to take effect 90 days after its passage.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2256