HB 5223 Summary

• Revises animal control definitions to replace "regional animal control officer" references with state-level positions and removes restrictions on where grooming and training facilities can operate.

• Modifies rabies vaccination requirements for dogs and cats to specify vaccination occur between 12-14 weeks of age or per vaccine manufacturer recommendations, with booster shots every three years.

• Eliminates the requirement for state veterinarian cosignment of equine health certificates for public auctions and clarifies capitalization of "Coggins test" terminology.

• Expands the protected open space and watershed land acquisition grant program to include grants for restoration and habitat protection in distressed municipalities, targeted investment communities, and environmental justice communities, with up to 20% of annual grants available for these purposes.

• Increases the Natural Heritage, Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Review Board from 21 to 23 members, adding representatives for environmental justice and low-income communities, and authorizes acquisition of up to 25.7 acres for flood control projects in specific municipalities through October 1, 2034.