The Act modifies Chapter 142 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to establish strict guidelines for pet store operators. Under this legislation, stores must maintain records of the sources from which they obtain animals and provide this information upon request. Violations of the provisions can result in civil penalties, thus encouraging compliance among pet store operators. The bill thus not only aims to improve the living conditions of animals sold in pet stores but also seeks to decrease the number of animals abandoned or euthanized due to overpopulation.
Summary
House Bill 849 addresses the pressing issue of pet overpopulation in Hawaii by introducing regulations on the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in pet stores. The legislative findings indicate that thousands of unwanted animals are annually brought to shelters, with significant euthanasia rates nationwide. The bill aims to promote animal adoption by requiring pet stores to sell only those animals obtained from specified humane sources, such as animal control officers or recognized humane societies. This move is intended to curb the practice of sourcing animals from unregulated breeders and puppy mills, which are often associated with poor living conditions for the animals.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 849 include concerns for ethical breeders who provide humane treatment and care for animals. The legislation clarifies that it does not intend to impact these responsible breeders. However, the balance between regulating pet sales and ensuring the rights of ethical breeders remains a point of discussion among stakeholders. There may be ongoing debates regarding how effectively this regulation will be enforced and its implications for the availability of certain breeds in the market.
A resolution to direct the Clerk of the House of Representatives to only present to the Governor enrolled House bills finally passed by both houses of the One Hundred Third Legislature.