NC S1332

Transfers administration of the Spay/Neuter Program from the Department of Health and Human Services to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, effective October 1, 2010.

Increases Animal Lovers special license plate fee from $20.00 to $30.00, with $20 (increased from $10) going to the Spay/Neuter Account.

Expands low-income eligibility for spay/neuter services to include individuals with annual household income under 300% of federal poverty level guidelines, in addition to those receiving public assistance.

Requires counties to publish guidelines for proof of low-income status and mandates animal shelter annual reports be filed by March 1 (changed from August 1) with ineligibility for reimbursement if report is not timely filed.

Directs Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to conduct comprehensive study of animal welfare issues in North Carolina by May 1, 2011, including evaluation of regulatory needs, shelter costs, and State Animal Response Team expansion feasibility.