Relating to the regulation of persons, including commercial establishments, keeping nonagricultural animals, providing for fees and appropriations, and making penalties applicable

The bill replaces the current fee system with one that includes the assessment of a base amount and the possible assessment of a scheduled amount based on class. The moneys from fees are still deposited into the commercial establishment fund. However, an amount is to be transferred to a new animal rescue remediation fund also under the control of DALS. The bill requires DALS to perform inspections and licensees to maintain records. The bill provides that DALS may take disciplinary action by suspending or revoking the person’s license. It provides that any continuing education program voluntarily completed by a person operating a commercial establishment prior to a disciplinary action is not considered part of such action. The bill provides for the sterilization of dogs or cats that are in the custody of an animal sanctuary. Greyhound dogs used in pari-mutuel wagering are exempted from regulation. Finally, the bill provides that the attorney general or a county attorney may bring a criminal action in order to enforce the provisions of the Code chapter and allows a court to provide injunctive relief.