Colorado House Bill HB1163

Colorado 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24
• Failed: 2/8/24
• Refer: 1/31/24

Caption

Pet Animal Registration System

Impact

The establishment of the pet registration system will centralize pet ownership information, improving the state's ability to respond during emergencies and reduce risks associated with lost or unattended pets. The act specifies fees for registration based on the type and registration status of each pet, functioning as a revenue-generating enterprise to support operational costs. Additionally, the legislation posits that revenues generated will not count against state fiscal year spending limits, ensuring funding is available for its intended purposes.

Summary

House Bill 1163, known as the Pet Animal Registration Act, mandates the creation of an online pet animal registration system overseen by the Department of Agriculture of Colorado. This legislation requires pet owners to register their pets annually and designate a caregiver who will be responsible for the pets in case of emergencies that incapacitate the owner. The bill aims to connect pet owners, their pets, and designated caregivers more effectively, while also ensuring that animal shelters can step in when caregivers cannot be located.

Contention

There are potential points of contention relating to the civil penalties associated with non-compliance and the mandatory registration of pets. Opposition may arise around the financial burden such fees could impose on pet owners and the legislative requirement for caregiver designation. Critics may argue that these stipulations could infringe on pet owners' rights or add difficulties in emergency situations, particularly for those without nearby family or friends willing to act as caregivers.