Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB746

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/31/23
• Refer: 5/31/23
• Refer: 6/7/23
• Report Pass: 6/19/23
• Engrossed: 6/20/23
• Refer: 6/21/23
• Refer: 6/27/23
• Report Pass: 10/18/23
• Enrolled: 10/23/23
• Chaptered: 10/23/23
• Passed: 10/23/23

Caption

In short title and definitions, further providing for definitions; in licenses, tags and kennels, further providing for issuance of dog licenses, compensation, proof required, deposit of funds, records, license sales, rules and regulations, failure to comply, unlawful acts and penalty, for applications for dog licenses, fees and penalties, for kennels, for requirements for kennels, for revocation or refusal of kennel licenses, for dogs temporarily in the Commonwealth and for health certificates for importation; in offenses of dogs, further providing for dog bites and detentions and isolation of dogs; in dangerous dogs, further providing for court proceedings, certificate of registration and disposition, for requirements, for public safety and penalties and for construction of article; in injury to dogs, further providing for selling, bartering or trading dogs; in enforcement and penalties, further providing for enforcement of this act by the secretary and provisions for inspections and for enforcement and penalties; in sterilization of dogs and cats, further providing for definitions; and imposing penalties.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts state laws related to animal welfare by revising the penalties for violations of dog management protocols and enhancing the requirements for kennel operators. It establishes a more rigorous licensing process, requiring all kennels to adhere strictly to safety and humane treatment standards. The bill proposes that individuals convicted of certain animal cruelty offenses will be barred from obtaining kennel licenses, thereby aiming to improve overall animal welfare in the state and ensure that only responsible operators are permitted to run kennels.

Summary

Senate Bill 746 aims to amend the existing Dog Law in Pennsylvania, which regulates the keeping and licensing of dogs and kennels. This bill includes provisions for dog licensing, kennel licensing, the enforcement of animal welfare standards, and penalties related to dog ownership and management. Notably, it introduces stricter regulations surrounding the licensing process, particularly for kennels, and enhances definitions related to the humane treatment of animals, which have implications for animal control and community safety.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB746 appeared to be generally supportive, particularly among animal rights advocates who see the reforms as necessary for protecting the welfare of dogs and preventing cruelty. However, there were concerns voiced by kennel operators regarding the feasibility of some new regulations and the financial burden that could arise from increased licensing fees. This split in sentiment highlights a broader conversation about balancing animal welfare with the economic realities of kennel operations.

Contention

Contentious points in SB746 often revolved around the proposed penalties and the conditions under which kennel licenses could be revoked or denied. Some stakeholders argued that the new guidelines could disproportionately affect small or hobbyist kennel operators who may struggle to meet the more stringent requirements. Additionally, the potential for significant fines related to non-compliance raised concerns among kennel owners about the practicality of adhering to the myriad changes without adequate support or transitional provisions.