SB 1919: Commercial Pet Breeders Act of 2012 Summary

• Creates licensing and regulatory framework for commercial pet breeders in Oklahoma, requiring those with 11+ intact female dogs or cats to obtain a state license and undergo annual inspections by the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry.

• Establishes minimum standards of care including veterinary care, proper feeding, shelter, exercise, socialization, and transportation, with standards meeting at least USDA requirements.

• Forms Advisory Council consisting of 7 members representing breeders, animal welfare, veterinarians, and non-commercial breeders to advise the State Board of Agriculture on rules and enforcement.

• Imposes penalties and enforcement mechanisms including administrative penalties ($100-$10,000), misdemeanor criminal penalties (up to $500-$1,000 fines), and authority to seize animals if health/safety endangered; prohibits humane society groups from conducting inspections.

• Transfers authority from existing State Board of Commercial Pet Breeders to the State Board of Agriculture, with existing funds, employees, and rules transferring to the Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry; effective July 1, 2013.