Bill > HB1551

This bill establishes the Dog Breeder Accountability Fund, a special fund managed by the Department of Agriculture, to promote breeder registration and accountability, and to provide financial aid to animal shelters and spay/neuter programs. Beginning July 1, 2028, dog breeders, defined as individuals who breed dogs in the state for sale or transfer to the public, must register annually with the Department and pay a $150 fee. Starting July 1, 2029, breeders must also apply for a puppy birth certificate for each newborn puppy within 30 days of birth, paying a $50 fee per puppy, and by July 1, 2030, all puppies must be microchipped with the identification number included on their birth certificate. The Fund will be financed by registration and birth certificate fees, state appropriations, and other accepted money, with 50% allocated to animal shelters and spay/neuter programs, 30% for administrative expenses, and 20% for education and enforcement. Violations of these regulations can result in administrative penalties of up to $5,000 per violation, with collected penalties also deposited into the Fund. The Department is also required to develop regulations and a public registry by July 1, 2027, and report on the implementation of these provisions annually.

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https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1551?ys=2026RS