CO HB1125

Changes the method for preventing animal disposition from posting a bond to filing a payment for impoundment, care, and provision costs with the court, with amounts determined by the impound agency.

Establishes a court hearing process within ten days of impoundment where owners can request the court determine if the costs are fair, reasonable, and necessary, with costs to be specifically itemized by the impound agency.

Allows a licensed veterinarian of the owner's choosing to examine impounded animals within 72 hours at the owner's expense, including taking photographs and biological samples for diagnostic testing.

Provides that owners who fail to pay impoundment costs forfeit the right to contest those costs and any ownership rights to the animal, and clarifies that courts must refund all costs if the owner is acquitted of all charges related to the impoundment.

Takes effect September 1, 2012, subject to potential voter approval if a referendum petition is filed within 90 days after legislative adjournment.