CS/HB 765 - Animal Protection Summary

• Prohibits unlicensed out-of-state veterinarians from practicing temporarily in Florida and bars persons convicted of animal cruelty violations from working as part-time/temporary animal care workers or farriers.

• Criminalizes the possession, distribution, sale, or transportation of horsemeat for human consumption that is not properly labeled or sourced from a licensed slaughterhouse as a third-degree felony with mandatory minimum penalties of $3,500 fine and 1 year incarceration.

• Authorizes suspension of business licenses (restaurants, stores, etc.) for owner or employee convictions related to horsemeat offenses.

• Increases penalties for killing or aggravated abuse of horses (all breeds) or registered cattle from second-degree to felony charges with mandatory minimum $3,500 fine and 1 year incarceration.

• Requires counties and municipalities with dog licensing to provide at least 45 days notice before renewal deadlines and encourages development of online licensing systems.