Update: Good news! This bill was passed by the Legislature and signed into law by the Governor on May 30, 2007.
Bill Description: This bill refines existing law governing cat and dog breeders and those involved in the commercial sale of cats and dogs. If passed, the bill will strengthen existing law by requiring the state to inspect the facilities of license applicants. Under current law, such an inspection is allowed but not required. The bill also sets out a license fee schedule, and allows fines to be assessed administratively for those facilities that violate the law. Finally, the bill would allow the inspectors to be assigned to public health duties in the event of a disease outbreak, but that is outweighed by the other provisions in the bill.
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This bill will improve fundamental protections for Nebraska animals. Puppies and kittens need proper care during their formative weeks to ensure good health and proper socialization. Healthy, well-socialized animals make better companions and tend to stay with their human families for longer periods of time, thereby benefiting the families, ensuring animal welfare, and reducing the pressure on animal rescue organizations and animal shelters. This legislation helps to accomplish that goal through a stronger facility inspection process.