HI SB2512

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

Creates a class C felony for anyone not licensed as a veterinarian who intentionally or knowingly performs any surgical procedure on a pet animal.

Maintains existing misdemeanor penalty of up to $500 fine or six months imprisonment for unlicensed practice of veterinary medicine under section 471-2.

Specifies that accepted veterinary practices and customary cropping or docking are only exempt from animal cruelty laws when performed by a licensed veterinarian under chapter 471.

Takes effect July 1, 2050.