HI HB140

Prohibits animal owners and their employees from performing any surgical procedures on animals, including surgical birth, ear cropping, tail docking, and debarking, without a veterinary license.

Makes intentionally or knowingly performing surgical procedures on pet animals by unlicensed persons a class C felony, with existing misdemeanor penalties of up to $500 fine and six months imprisonment for other violations of veterinary licensing requirements.

Requires that accepted veterinary practices and cropping or docking procedures be performed only by veterinarians licensed under chapter 471 to avoid classification as animal cruelty.

Provides that forfeiture of tools, implements, appliances, medicine, and drugs used in unlicensed veterinary practice shall be declared forfeited to the State and turned over to the board of veterinary examiners.

Takes effect upon approval; does not affect rights, duties, or proceedings that existed before the effective date.