MO HB2102

Repeals and re-enacts sections 273.327 and 273.329 of Missouri Revised Statutes relating to animal care facility licensure and regulation.

Changes language in section 273.327 to require "such person" instead of "he" to obtain licenses for operating animal shelters, pounds, dog pounds, boarding kennels, commercial kennels, contract kennels, pet shops, and exhibition facilities.

Exempts animal shelters from licensing fees (pounds and dog pounds already exempted), while other facilities pay annual fees ranging from $100 to $500.

Adds new subsection 2 to section 273.329 prohibiting the Department of Agriculture from retaining, contracting with, or utilizing nonprofit organization personnel for inspection or licensing of animal care facilities.

Maintains existing grounds for license refusal, non-renewal, or revocation including misstatements in applications, violations of animal care laws, animal-related convictions, and failure to provide adequate care; operating without a valid license remains a Class A misdemeanor.