Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HF474

Introduced
2/19/25  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the treatment of animals other than agricultural animals by providing for the inspection or monitoring of commercial establishments by the department of agriculture and land stewardship, and making penalties applicable.

Impact

Upon enactment, HF474 will significantly enhance the regulatory framework surrounding non-agricultural animal treatment in Iowa. The bill obligates the DALS to perform annual inspections on licensed commercial breeders, ensuring that they consistently meet the humane treatment requirements set forth in the legislation. This systematic monitoring could lead to more robust enforcement of animal welfare standards across the state, fostering a safer and more ethical environment for animals under commercial care.

Summary

House File 474 (HF474) aims to amend existing laws governing the treatment of non-agricultural animals in commercial establishments. The bill mandates that the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (DALS) conduct inspections to monitor compliance with animal care standards. Specifically, it provides for both scheduled and priority inspections of establishments that are licensed to operate as commercial breeders, where adherence to standards for care must be continuously evaluated by DALS.

Contention

Despite its intention to improve animal welfare, HF474 may face contention among stakeholders. Proponents argue that tighter regulations will safeguard animal rights and ensure appropriate care standards in commercial establishments. However, opponents might view this increased regulatory burden as a potential impediment to small businesses and breeders, raising concerns about excessive government oversight. Additionally, there may be discussions about adequate resources for the DALS to fulfill the new inspection requirements effectively.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA HF2039

A bill for an act relating to the treatment of animals other than agricultural animals by providing for the inspection or monitoring of commercial establishments by the department of agriculture and land stewardship, and making penalties applicable.

IA HF2406

A bill for an act requiring the department of agriculture and land stewardship to employ additional personnel to inspect or monitor commercial establishments where nonagricultural animals are kept, and including effective date provisions.

IA SSB1115

A bill for an act providing for programs and regulations administered and enforced by the department of agriculture and land stewardship, providing fees, providing for the allocation of moneys, and making penalties applicable.(See SF 311.)

IA HF277

A bill for an act providing for programs and regulations administered and enforced by the department of agriculture and land stewardship, providing fees, providing for the allocation of moneys, and making penalties applicable.(Formerly HSB 113; See HF 666.)

IA HSB113

A bill for an act providing for programs and regulations administered and enforced by the department of agriculture and land stewardship, providing fees, providing for the allocation of moneys, and making penalties applicable.(See HF 277, HF 666.)

IA SF311

A bill for an act providing for programs and regulations administered and enforced by the department of agriculture and land stewardship, providing fees, providing for the allocation of moneys, and making penalties applicable.(Formerly SSB 1115.)

IA HF666

A bill for an act providing for programs and regulations administered and enforced by the department of agriculture and land stewardship, providing fees, providing for the allocation of moneys, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HF 277, HSB 113.) Effective date: 06/01/2023, 07/01/2023.

IA SSB3052

A bill for an act relating to agriculture, by providing for the administration of programs and regulations, and making appropriations.(See SF 2209, SF 2410.)

IA HSB560

A bill for an act relating to agriculture, by providing for the administration of programs and regulations, and making appropriations.(See HF 2510, HF 2641.)

IA HF2354

A bill for an act relating to water quality, including by providing for the permitting and monitoring of animal feeding operations, providing penalties, and making penalties applicable.

Similar Bills

IA HF2039

A bill for an act relating to the treatment of animals other than agricultural animals by providing for the inspection or monitoring of commercial establishments by the department of agriculture and land stewardship, and making penalties applicable.

CA SB1017

Commercial fishing: drift gill net shark and swordfish fishery: permit transition program.

CA AB1313

Water quality: permits.

AZ SB1260

Dog racing; simulcast wagering; prohibition

CA AB2369

Fishing: marine protected areas: violations.

CA AB2106

Water quality: permits.

HI SB3166

Relating To Commercial Ocean Recreation Operations.

HI HB2477

Relating To Commercial Ocean Recreation Operations.