Bill > S0720

This bill, titled the "South Carolina Humane Dog Breeding Act," establishes new regulations for professional dog breeders in South Carolina, defining a "professional dog breeder" as someone who keeps ten or more intact female adult dogs for breeding and selling, or sells more than fifteen puppies or two litters annually. To operate, these breeders must obtain a license from the South Carolina Department of Agriculture, which is valid for two years and requires an initial on-site inspection by local law enforcement or an appointed designee to ensure compliance with housing and care standards. The bill outlines commercial standards for licensees, including requirements for food, water, clean and safe housing facilities, adequate space, daily exercise, prompt veterinary care, and limits on breeding frequency and the number of young puppies kept for sale. It also mandates detailed record-keeping for each dog, including health, breeding, and sales information, and requires breeders to provide consumers with a written disclosure statement at the time of sale, detailing the dog's health history and the breeder's information. The Act provides mechanisms for the seizure of dogs kept in violation of its provisions and authorizes the Director of the Department of Agriculture to create regulations to implement these new rules, with penalties for violations including fines and potential license suspension or revocation.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=0720&session=126&summary=B