Bill > SF2415

This bill establishes a new Companion Animal Board (CAB) to promote the welfare of companion animals in Minnesota. The board will consist of 13 members appointed by the governor, representing veterinary medicine, local communities, animal shelters and rescues, breeders, and mental health professionals. The board's primary responsibilities include enforcing state laws related to cat and dog kennels and commercial breeders, providing education and resources about companion animal care, collecting data on companion animal welfare, and administering a grant program to support animal welfare organizations. The board will have a dedicated account in the state treasury to receive fees, gifts, and grants, with at least $250,000 annually allocated for grants and an additional $750,000 for a pilot program. The duties of licensing and inspecting kennels, dealers, and commercial breeders will be transferred from the Board of Animal Health to the new Companion Animal Board effective July 1, 2026. The bill appropriates $2,854,000 in fiscal year 2026 and $3,057,000 in fiscal year 2027 to support the board's operations, with specific emphasis on grant programs and supporting the welfare of companion animals across Minnesota.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF2415&ssn=0&y=2025