HB1166 Summary

• Requires a person to obtain a permit from the County Board to possess 7 or more companion animals.

• Failing to obtain a permit for 7 or more companion animals is a Class B misdemeanor; a second or subsequent violation is a Class 4 felony with each day of violation counting as a separate offense.

• Defines "companion animal hoarder" as a person who possesses 7 or more companion animals and fails to provide required care, keeps them in severely overcrowded conditions, and displays inability to recognize or reckless disregard for the conditions' impact on the animals' and owner's health and well-being.

• Exempts feral cats from the permit requirement.