H.B. 124 Summary

• Establishes a new "Kennel Control Authority" to license and regulate dog breeding kennels, dog intermediaries, and animal rescues through Chapter 956 of the Revised Code.

• Requires regulated dog breeding kennels (those producing 9+ litters or 40+ puppies annually) and regulated dog intermediaries (those buying/selling 9+ dogs annually) to obtain licenses and comply with detailed standards of care including housing size requirements, exercise periods, veterinary care, and breeding restrictions.

• Sets licensing fees ranging from $150-$750 for breeding kennels based on production volume and $500 for intermediaries; establishes a new state licensing fund to support the authority's operations.

• Prohibits dog sales at flea markets, auctions, and public venues except through licensed pet stores; requires pet stores to provide health certificates or money-back guarantees and breeder information to purchasers.

• Creates enforcement mechanisms including inspections, citations, civil penalties (up to $15,000), license suspension/revocation, and gives the Franklin County Municipal Court's environmental division jurisdiction over enforcement actions and appeals.