DE SCR44

Establishes an Animal Welfare Task Force to evaluate animal welfare in Delaware and determine if consolidation, collaboration, or reorganization can improve resource efficiency.

Task Force will examine animal cruelty laws, shelter standards, dog control and licensing, the spay/neuter program, and coordination among state agencies responsible for animal welfare oversight.

Membership comprises 16+ members including 2 House members, 2 Senate members, representatives from 5 Delaware animal shelters, the Governor's office, 5 public members appointed by the Governor, Department of Agriculture, Delaware Veterinary Medical Association, local governments, and University of Pennsylvania veterinary medicine program.

Task Force must convene as soon as possible, conduct at least one public hearing, consult with animal welfare experts, and examine best practices from other states and municipalities.

Task Force must submit written recommendations to the Governor, Speaker of the House, and President Pro Tempore of the Senate by March 30, 2013.