HB 2431 Summary

• Requires kennel operators to implant microchips in all dogs three months of age or older before a permit is issued and within thirty days of a dog reaching three months old or arriving at the kennel.

• Authorizes county enforcement agents to scan dogs for microchips and assess penalty fees of up to $50 for each subsequent inspection or visit if microchips are not implanted as required.

• Permits county enforcement agents to implant microchips themselves and charge kennel operators a fee not exceeding the actual cost of microchip implanting services.

• Exempts publicly operated or private charitable nonprofit pounds, humane societies, and animal rescue organizations from microchip requirements.

• Maintains existing kennel permit provisions including annual fee of $75, denial of permits to those convicted of animal welfare violations, and inspection requirements for kennels with twenty or more dogs.