Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0325

Introduced
2/21/25  
Refer
2/21/25  
Report Pass
5/28/25  

Caption

Amends the definition of “hobby breeder” to limit the sale or offering for sale to no more than two (2) litters of dogs or cats, or a combination thereof, in a three hundred and sixty-five (365) day period.

Impact

The enactment of this bill is expected to have significant implications for state laws surrounding animal breeding practices. By defining hobby breeders and restricting their operations, the legislation seeks to mitigate the risks associated with overbreeding and neglect. It may enhance the conditions under which animals are raised and adopted, contributing to a broader goal of promoting responsible pet ownership and animal rescue initiatives.

Summary

Bill S0325 amends the definition of 'hobby breeder' within the context of animal care legislation in Rhode Island. The bill specifically limits hobby breeders to the sale or offering for sale of no more than two litters of dogs or cats, or a combination thereof, within a 365-day period. This legislative modification is aimed at controlling the number of animals bred by non-commercial breeders and ensuring they operate under reasonable guidelines intended to promote animal welfare.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding Bill S0325 appears to be supportive, particularly among animal welfare advocates and organizations who see the legislation as a positive step towards better management of animal breeding practices. However, there could be contention among some breeders who may view this limitation as an infringement on their rights to breed animals as they see fit, leading to debates surrounding personal freedoms versus animal welfare.

Contention

Notable points of contention around Bill S0325 may include discussions about the balancing act between regulating animal breeding to protect animal welfare and ensuring breeders can still operate without excessive restrictions. The effectiveness of enforcing such limits, and whether they would sufficiently reduce unethical breeding practices, are likely to be areas of further discussion and scrutiny in the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H7840

Permits euthanization of vicious dogs upon finding that dogs condition warrants euthanasia or after determination that there is no reasonable placement for the dog/provides any municipality that surrenders dog to RISPCA shall be responsible for costs.

RI S2358

Increases the amount of exemption from sales tax for clothing including footwear from two hundred fifty dollars ($250) to five hundred dollars ($500). Effective July 1, 2023.

RI S2744

Increases the penalty for violations of the care of dogs statute to a minimum fine of one hundred dollars ($100) and a maximum fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000) per violation.

RI H8095

Increases the penalty for violations of the care of dogs statute to a minimum fine of one hundred dollars ($100) and a maximum fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000) per violation.

RI S2538

Permits euthanization of vicious dogs upon finding that dogs condition warrants euthanasia or after determination that there is no reasonable placement for the dog/provides any municipality that surrenders dog to RISPCA shall be responsible for costs.

RI S2315

Exempts from the sales and use tax the sale of firearm safety equipment and related products.

RI H7441

Adds pickles and relish to foods not requiring refrigeration, the sale of raw milk and the taking of mushrooms for personal use.

RI S2167

Exempts from the sales tax scalp hair prosthesis or wigs that are necessary due to hair loss from a medical condition.

RI H7037

Exempts from the sales tax scalp hair prosthesis or wigs that are necessary due to hair loss from a medical condition.

RI S2204

Increases the maximum number of voters that a polling place can accommodate from three thousand (3,000) to three thousand five hundred (3,500).

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.