HB 249 Summary

• Establishes the Companion Animal Public-Private Partnership Act to promote cost-saving partnerships between local government shelters, private shelters, and nonprofit rescue organizations.

• Prohibits animal shelters from euthanizing animals when a rescue organization has indicated it will take custody of the animal.

• Authorizes animal shelters to assess fees not exceeding the standard adoption fee for animals released to rescue organizations, in addition to any required spay or neuter deposit.

• Exempts three categories of animals from the euthanasia prohibition: animals suspected of carrying rabies (as determined by a licensed veterinarian), dogs classified as dangerous under Florida law, and animals experiencing irremediable suffering (as certified in writing by a licensed veterinarian).

• Takes effect July 1, 2018.