FL S1738

Authorizes counties to create independent special districts to provide funding for pet services and welfare programs, with district boundaries coterminous with county boundaries.

Establishes a Pets' Trust council as the governing board consisting of 14 members including animal shelter representatives, county commissioners, veterinarians, animal welfare advocates, accountants, attorneys, rescue organization representatives, and two at-large elected members.

Requires up to 80 percent of council revenue to fund spay and neuter programs during the first 3 years or until shelter deaths reach half the state average, with remaining funds allocated to pet retention, adoption, education, and animal cruelty prevention programs.

Sets maximum millage rate at 0.10 mills of assessed valuation and limits administrative costs to 5 percent of revenue, with no bonds authorized and all expenditures requiring council approval.

Requires voter approval for initial millage levy and district creation, with mandatory referendum on district retention or dissolution required after 4 years of operation.