State Legislative Update August 2017 This State Legislative Update

State Legislative Update August 2017

This State Legislative Update includes summaries of select bills tracked by the AVMA from January 1 through August 15, 2017.

With only 10 state legislatures currently in session, there have been few veterinary or animal health-related bills in the past month.

In Michigan, a recently introduced bill would increase the number of training hours that certain animal dealers and shelter employees must complete regarding euthanasia. Individuals seeking state permits to purchase and use euthanasia drugs must now receive at least 16 hours (double the previous requirement) of approved education given by a licensed veterinarian.

While there might not be a lot happening legislatively, state agencies and regulatory bodies continue to propose rule changes, and a handful are directly relevant to the veterinary profession. In Virginia, the state board of veterinary medicine has proposed creating two new types of licenses: one for veterinarians employed by a veterinary education program and another as a temporary license available to interns and residents. “The primary advantage of the amendments is accountability for the clinical care of animals provided by faculty, interns, and residents at the veterinary school,” states the proposed regulation.

Below is a chart containing select pieces of state legislation tracked by the AVMA State Advocacy Division in 2017.

State Citation/ Summary of Proposed Bill or Regulation Status Link Alabama HB 393/SB This new law allows for the use of a registered therapy dog in Signed into 273 legal proceedings, when permitted by the judge, to assist a law on victim or witness in order to reduce unnecessary emotional 5/19/17 distress and allow full and factual testimony. It also would authorize a judge to use discretionary funds to offset the costs for a registered handler of a registered therapy dog used in a legal proceeding.

Alabama HB 91 Would create a civil cause of action in the wrongful injury or Sine Die- death of a companion animal or service animal. The action Failed could be brought by the animal owner against a caretaker of the animal who, through an act of negligence or reckless or willful misconduct, causes the serious injury or death of the animal.

Additionally, this bill would provide for the recovery of compensatory and punitive damages for the wrongful injury or death of a companion animal or service animal. This bill would also limit the time to bring an action to two years after the injury or death of the animal occurs.

Alabama HB 45/SB Would establish the Alabama Dog and Cat Breeders Sine Die- 17 Commission and would give the commission the authority to Failed license cat/dog breeders in the state. The bill also would allow the commission to set breeding standards and the minimum standard of care for certain animals.

Alabama HB 202 Would establish definitions, guidelines, and penalties for the Sine Die- humane tethering of a dog as a means of containment. Failed

Alaska HB 159/SB Would allow the board of pharmacy to deny, suspend, or Signed into 79 revoke the license of a person who has procured, sold, law on prescribed, or dispensed drugs in violation of a law, regardless 7/27/17 of whether there has been a criminal action.

Additionally, this bill would require that any professional licensee who has a federal DEA number register with the controlled substance prescription database. It also would identify resources and develop educational materials to assist licensees to identify an animal owner who may be at risk for abusing or misusing an opioid. Initial prescriptions for opioids would also have new limits on the number of days’ supply dispensed.

Arizona HB 2242 Would add the following crimes to the definition of animal Sine Die- cruelty: Failed

1. Intentionally or knowingly subjecting a domestic animal or cruel mistreatment or 2. Intentionally or knowingly killing a domestic animal without the legal privilege or consent of the animal’s owner or handler.

Arizona SB 1141 Would establish a central animal-abuser registry. Under this Sine Die- bill, any person who is 18 years or older and who has been Failed convicted of certain animal-cruelty offenses must register with the Secretary of State’s Office within five calendar days after the conviction or within five calendar days after entering and remaining in the state.

Arizona SB 1408 This new law directs the State Veterinarian to establish Signed into procedures for county, city, and town animal pounds that do not law on 5/3/17 have a licensed veterinarian on staff to obtain and administer sodium pentobarbital or a derivative of sodium pentobarbital.

Arkansas HB 1871 Would specify that the Department of Health, in conjunction Failed on with the Arkansas State Animal Control Association, shall 5/1/17 establish a mandatory certification program for animal-control officers that includes a certification examination.

Arkansas SB 553 Provides a certification process for non-veterinarians who Signed into engage in embryo transfer and/or livestock pregnancy law on 4/7/17 determination. Prohibits the Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners from investigating or prosecuting and individual technician who engages in embryo transfer and/or livestock pregnancy determination until July 1, 2019.

Arkansas SB 170 Would create a licensure exemption for healthcare Signed into professionals offering free healthcare services through a law on program in partnership with the Federal Innovative Readiness 2/22/17 Training. Specifically, this bill would allow a person to practice veterinary medicine through a program in partnership with the Federal Innovative Readiness Training if the veterinarian or veterinary technician has obtained a license to practice from another state, commonwealth, territory, or the District of Columbia.

Arkansas HB 1715 Would create the Protection for Dog Owners Act to define Sine Die- deceptive trade practices for dog sales and to establish Failed standards for dog breeders and sellers.

Arkansas HB 1717 Would create the Dog and Cat Sale Registration Act and define Sine Die- “casual breeder” and “commercial breeder.” Failed

California Dept. of Would clarify the existing statutory requirement that all Proposed Food & businesses selling restricted livestock drugs in California 7/7/17 Agriculture/ (including out-of-state and online retailers) have a “restricted Title 3 livestock drug” license.

These regulations would clarify the additional requirements associated with sales of medically important antimicrobial drugs, including what licensees are responsible for verifying prior to selling the drugs, additional recordkeeping requirements, provisions for proper storage and inventory, and instructions for labelling.

California California This new regulation would require that all horses present within Proposed Horse the enclosure of a licensed racing association, racing fair, or 7/14/17 Racing training facility carry a microchip or have one implanted. Board/Title 4 California AB 411 Would authorize witnesses, as well as certain child witnesses, Introduced to be accompanied by a trained therapy dog while testifying. 2/9/17 Specifically, it would set minimum training requirements for these dogs and their handlers and would require a party requesting the use of such a dog to file a motion with the court, specifying the qualifications of and need for the dog.

California AB 942 Would allow a credit against those taxes for each taxable year Introduced beginning on or after January 1, 2017, and before January 1, 2/16/17 2023, in an amount equal to 50% of the amount paid or incurred during the taxable year by a taxpayer for qualified veterinary costs, as defined, for taxpayer’s pets, as defined, not to exceed $2,000 per taxable year.

California AB 1138 Would specify that it is the responsibility of the person Introduced importing a dog into this state for the purpose of resale or 2/17/17 change of ownership to send the health certificate to the county health department where the dog is to be offered for sale or to the county of residence of the individual purchasing or receiving a dog directly from a source outside of California.

California AB 1569 Would authorize a person renting, leasing, or otherwise Introduced providing real property for compensation to request that if a 2/17/17 prospective or current tenant requests a disability-related reasonable accommodation to keep an animal on the property, the prospective or current tenant provide third-party verification of a disability and disability-related need for an animal.

California SB 546 Would require, in nonemergency situations and outpatient Introduced settings, that each time a veterinarian prescribes, administers, 2/16/17 dispenses, or furnishes a drug or medicine, the veterinarian offer to provide the client with counseling and pharmaceutical literature prepared by the pharmaceutical laboratory or a brief handout prepared by the veterinarian.

Colorado HB 17- Provides immunity from civil and criminal liability for a person Signed into 1179 who forcibly enters a locked vehicle for the purpose of law on rendering assistance to an at-risk person or animal if certain 4/13/17 conditions are met first.

Colorado HB 17- Defines 'food animal' and sets forth the limited circumstances Signed into 1274 under which a veterinarian may administer or dispense a law on 6/6/17 compounded drug obtained from a prescription drug outlet for a food animal.

Colorado SB 17-146 Permits a veterinarian, when prescribing a controlled Signed into substance, to query the state prescription-drug monitoring law on 4/6/17 program if it relates to a current patient or to a client, and if the veterinarian has a reasonable basis to suspect the client has committed drug abuse or has mistreated an animal.

Colorado SB 17-242 Specifies that, if the Board of Veterinary Medicine has Signed into reasonable cause to believe that a licensed veterinarian is law on unable to practice veterinary medicine with reasonable skill and 5/25/17 safety to patients or clients due to behavioral, mental health, or substance-use disorder, the Board may require in writing that the licensed veterinarian submit to an examination.

Connecticut HB 6326 Would establish the requirements for proper shelter for Sine Die- companion animals, including, but not limited to, cats and dogs, Failed and service animals.

Connecticut HB 6334 Requires the registration of animal shelters and authorizes the Signed into inspection of such animal shelters by animal control officers for law on 7/7/17 compliance with certain standards. Additionally, this bill would authorize the Commissioner of Agriculture to suspend the registration of any shelter that does not meet such standards.

Connecticut HB 6617 Would require health insurance coverage for the purchase of Sine Die- assistance dogs, provided the insured person’s treating health Failed care provider certifies in writing that such assistance dog is medically necessary.

Connecticut HB 7010 Would require the Department of Public Health to state on its Sine Die- website how a prescribing practitioner may obtain certification Failed to prescribe at-home medication to treat opioid use disorder (e.g., Suboxone). It also requires, by November 1, 2017, each medical director in Connecticut who supervises a prescribing practitioner to communicate with the practitioner about these requirements, courses, and information. Under existing law, Connecticut-licensed health providers, including veterinarians, may prescribe medication within the scope of their practice.

Connecticut HB 7052 Amends various provisions on controlled substance abuse Signed into prevention, particularly as it relates to opioid drugs. law on 6/30/17 Connecticut SB 513 Would authorize emergency response personnel to assist an Sine Die- animal that is locked in a vehicle when conditions pose a threat Failed to the animal’s welfare and would make it illegal to leave an animal in such conditions.

Delaware HB 13 Prohibits municipalities from enacting breed-specific Signed into ordinances or regulations. No dog can be considered law on 6/2/17 ‘dangerous’ or ‘potentially dangerous’ solely because of the dog’s breed or perceived breed.

Delaware HB 173 Would update the ‘dangerous dog’ law to allow for more Introduced thorough investigation prior to civil filings, add provisions for 5/11/17 dogs that repeatedly attack (or threaten to attack) people and animals in the community, and establishes a deadline for filing appeals after ‘dangerous dog’ rulings.

Delaware HB 235 Would encourage spaying, neutering, and vaccination in order Introduced to limit the number of unwanted cats and protect the public 6/15/17 from rabies and other diseases carried by unvaccinated animals. The bill would also define “free-roaming cats” and also “free-roaming cat caretakers,” who are one or more persons who may provide food, shelter, or medical treatment for free roaming cats without becoming an “owner” for legal purposes.

Delaware HB 238 Would enable a licensed veterinarian to exempt an animal from Introduced the mandated rabies vaccination if the veterinarian determines 6/20/17 the vaccine would endanger the animal’s health and a titer test has been administered to assist in determining the necessity of the vaccine. It also requires that a licensed veterinarian complete a Vaccine Risk Assessment Form provided by the department and to review the form with the pet owner. The form must be developed and distributed to licensed veterinarians by the Department of Health and Social Services before January 1, 2019.

Delaware Dpt. of Allows a Delaware-licensed pharmacy to provide a Finalized on State/ 24 compounded nonsterile or sterile preparation without a patient- 6/1/17 DE Admin. specific prescription to a Delaware-licensed veterinarian who Code 2500 intends to administer it to an animal patient in his or her care, or to dispense to the patient's owner or caretaker; the pharmacy would need to meet certain requirements.

Delaware Dpt. of Sets forth the requirements of the medical evaluation that must Finalized on State/ be performed by a practitioner before a subsequent 4/3/17 16 Del.C. § prescription is issued. It also adds two exemptions that permit 4731(a) continuity of care for acute pain while ensuring patient safety.

District of B 22-0064 Would define instances in which keeping animals outside in Introduced Columbia certain weather conditions constitutes animal cruelty. 7/11/17

District of Housing Allows individuals living in public housing properties designated Finalized on Columbia Authority/1 for the elderly and/or disabled to own common household pets. 2/17/17 4-6126 District of B 22-0392 This new legislation amends the Animal Control Act of 1979 to Signed into Columbia clarify what constitutes the proper treatment of animals, law on (D.C.) updates prohibited behaviors toward animals, and updates 7/31/17 penalties for violating this act.

Florida HB 199/SB Would add and amend the following definitions: Failed on 220 1. Complementary or alternative and integrative therapies, 5/5/17 2. Physical examination, 3. Veterinarian relationship, 4. Client relationship, 5. Patient, 6. Veterinary Dentistry, and 7. Veterinary Telemedicine.

Florida HB 497/SB Would create the Florida Domestic Animal Recovery Act. Withdrawn 690 Specifically, this bill would assess compensatory damage from liability on a defendant who acts in a manner that causes consideration injuries to, or the death of, domestic animals. However, this bill on 3/15/17 would not subject a defendant to liability for non-economic damages.

Florida HB 515/SB Would establish the Companion Animal Protection Act. This bill Failed on 1162 would also require animal shelters to take certain measures 5/5/17 when holding, caring for, treating, and euthanizing animals with certain exceptions.

Florida HB 871/SB Would require the Department of Law Enforcement to post a Failed on 1628 publicly accessible registry list on its website of persons 5/5/17 convicted of specified animal abuse offenses beginning January 1, 2018. Specifically, this registry list would include a photograph of the convicted animal abuser taken as part of the booking process, the animal abuser's full legal name, and other identifying data the Department determines is necessary to properly identify the animal abuser and to exclude innocent persons.

Florida HB Would hold a defendant liable for the following damages in any Failed on 1067/SB action arising out of the injury or death of a pet: 5/5/17 1270 1. Monetary losses for reasonable and necessary veterinary care of the pet due to the injury or death of the pet; 2. Monetary loss in the fair market value of the pet due to the injury or death of the pet; 3. If the injury or death of the pet was caused by the gross

negligence of the defendant, noneconomic damages of up to $5,000 for the loss of the reasonably expected companionship, love, and affection of the pet.

Georgia HB 40 Would require a veterinarian to disclose an animal’s rabies Sine-Die vaccination history within 24 hours of receipt of a written Failed request by the physician of any person bitten by such an animal.

Georgia HB 144/SB Would define what constitutes a “retail pet store owner.” Sine-Die 214 Specifically, this bill would set forth the requirements that retail Failed pet stores must comply with if they obtain a dog or cat for the purposes of resale or sale to the public, including veterinary care. It would also provide for certain rights of purchasers of cats and dogs.

Georgia HB 529 Would prohibit a person from transporting any live animal in the Sine-Die back of a motor vehicle, on a public road, in a space intended Failed for any load unless:

(1) The space is enclosed or has side and tail racks to a height of at least 46 inches extending vertically from the floor; (2) The animal is cross-tethered to the vehicle or secured by a harness that encircles the shoulders and rib cage of the animal; or (3) The animal is protected by being placed within a container which will prevent the animal from being thrown or falling or jumping from the vehicle.

Hawaii HB 55/SB Would prohibit tethers and certain other types of restraints that Introduced 754 are known to endanger dogs or prevent dogs from receiving 1/19/17 necessary sustenance.

Hawaii HB 122 Would appropriate funds to the Department of Health to enable Introduced it to contract with eligible non-profit or charitable organizations, 1/20/17 private entities, or public entities to trap, neuter or spay, and release feral cats to the location where they were originally trapped.

Hawaii HB 185 Would define animal abandonment as a person who Introduced intentionally, knowingly, recklessly, or negligently leaves an 1/20/17 animal at a location without providing for the animal’s continued care. Under this bill, a person would not be able to defend his or her action by the fact that he or she abandoned an animal at or near an animal shelter, veterinary clinic, or other place of shelter without an arrangement for the care of the animal. Hawaii HB 1599 Would define “emotional support animals” and makes it a Introduced misdemeanor to knowingly make a misrepresentation regarding 1/25/17 a service, or emotional support, animal.

Idaho S 1051 Would amend and add to existing law to provide that persons Sine-Die with mental or emotional disabilities may be accompanied by Failed support animals in places open to the public.

Idaho S 1089 Allows a facility dog to remain in a courtroom, at the witness Signed into stand, when a child is summoned as a witness in any hearing, law on in a non-criminal matter, that involves the abuse, neglect, or 3/27/17 abandonment of the child.

Illinois HB 3162 Would require the Department of Financial and Professional Introduced Regulation to establish a program under which a dog acting as 2/9/17 a service dog shall be licensed.

Illinois HB 3438 Would specify that in certain offenses involving injury to Introduced companion animals, except for a State licensed veterinary 2/9/17 hospital, humane society, animal shelter, or kennel, the convicted individual shall pay the owner of the companion animal 3 times the value of the immediate, completed, or ongoing veterinary treatment related to the injury of the companion animal.

Illinois SB 1261 Would specify that parties in a divorce/separation proceeding Sent to the may execute a written agreement allocating ownership of and Governor on responsibility for any companion animals owned by the parties. 6/29/17 It also would allow either party to petition or move for the temporary allocation of sole or joint ownership and responsibility for a companion animal. Before issuing such an order, this bill would require the court to take into consideration the well-being of the animal.

Illinois SB 1884 Would create the Research Dogs and Cats Adoption Act. Sent to the Specifically, this bill would require that a research facility, after Governor on the completion of any research involving a dog or cat, shall 6/28/17 assess the health of the dog or cat and determine whether it is suitable for adoption.

Illinois SB 1903 Would prohibit an owner of any companion animal (rather than Introduced a cat or dog that is a companion animal) from exposing the 2/10/17 companion animal in a manner that places that animal in a life- threatening situation for a prolonged period of time in extreme heat or cold conditions.

Indiana HB 1085 Shields a person who removes a domestic animal from a motor Signed into vehicle from civil liability for any bodily injury or property law on damage resulting from the person's forcible entry of the motor 4/26/17 vehicle to remove the animal if certain conditions exist. Additionally, a person can be charged with a Class C infraction if they recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally: (1) park outdoors a motor vehicle in which a domestic animal is confined; and (2) leave the immediate area in which the vehicle is parked. Indiana HB 1185 Would exempt a certified advanced emergency medical Sine-Die technician, certified emergency medical technician, or Failed paramedic who provides certain emergency medical services to a companion animal from liability related to the services provided, unless the act or omission constitutes negligence or willful misconduct. Would also grant civil immunity to a person who forcibly enters a locked car in order to rescue a companion animal.

Indiana HB 1308 Stipulates that an individual may not immunize an animal for a Signed into fee, unless the individual is a veterinarian or under the direct law on supervision of a veterinarian. 4/13/17

Indiana SB 82 Would specify that an individual who performs only equine Introduced teeth floating services is exempt from the veterinary medicine 1/3/17 licensing requirements after submitting to the Indiana Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners two signed letters of recommendation from previous clients. It also would require the Board to issue a card that identifies the individual as a person who is exempt from licensing but may engage in the practice of veterinary medicine only by performing equine teeth floating.

Iowa SF 129 Would require a licensed veterinarian to report any conclusion Introduced of animal cruelty to the local law enforcement agency having 1/24/17 jurisdiction to investigate the matter.

Iowa SF 313/SF Would prohibit the mistreatment of certain animals, including Introduced 421 dogs and cats, but excluding other animals such as livestock 2/22/17 game, fur-bearing animals, fish, reptiles, or amphibians unless such animal is owned, confined, or controlled by a person. Additionally, this bill would amend three different criminal offenses including animal abuse, animal neglect, and animal torture. It also would create the criminal offenses of animal abandonment and animal endangerment.

Kansas HB Would create the definitions of ‘rescue network,’ ‘rescue Introduced 2097/SB network manager,’ and ‘pet animal foster home.’ Additionally, 1/19/17 47 this bill would allow animal shelters to utilize pet animal foster homes and would specify that each animal shelter is responsible for ensuring pet animal foster homes comply with the Kansas Pet Animal Act.

Kansas HB 2302 Would allow any public health officer, law enforcement officer, Introduced licensed veterinarian or officer or agent of any animal shelter or 2/7/17 other appropriate facility to take into custody any animal, upon either private or public property, which clearly shows evidence of cruelty to animals. Such officer, agent or veterinarian would be able to inspect, care for or treat such animal or place such animal in the care of an animal shelter or licensed veterinarian for treatment, boarding, care or, if appropriate, humane killing.

Kansas Dpt of Would define the requirements for dogs and cats imported into Proposed Agriculture Kansas. 2/16/17 Division of Animal Health/ K.A.R. 9- 18-5 Kansas Dept. of Would define the standard structural and other requirements for Proposed Agriculture: indoor and sheltered facilities for retail breeders, hobby 6/15/17 Animal breeders, animal shelters, rescue networks, boarding and Health/K.A. training kennels, research facilities, and pet shops. R. 9-18-11

Kansas Dept. of Would define the standard structural and other requirements for Proposed Agriculture: outdoor housing facilities for retail breeders, hobby breeders, 6/15/17 Animal animal shelters, rescue networks, boarding and training Health/K.A. kennels, research facilities, and pet shops. R. 9-18-12 Kansas Dept. of Would define the purpose for and time periods during which Proposed Agriculture: licensees may use tethers. 6/15/17 Animal Health/K.A. R. 9-18-30 Kentucky HB 135 Would define what constitutes “torture” of a dog or a Sine-Die cat. Additionally, this bill would classify the torture of a dog or Failed cat as a Class D felony for the first offense and a Class C felony for a second or subsequent offense.

Kentucky HB 143 Would detail what constitutes the crime of sexual assault of a Sine-Die dog or cat. It also would charge most individuals, convicted of Failed this crime, with a Class D felony and would require the offender to forfeit any assaulted dog or cat.

Louisiana SB 64 Would provide for animal shelter operating procedures and Signed into training requirements as well as authorize animal shelters to law on post pictures of animals on a social media account or website. 6/12/17

Maine LD 419 Would create a cause of action for noneconomic damages to Failed on (HP 299) be collected by a pet owner when another person or the 5/16/17 person's animal kills the pet or injures the pet and the injuries lead to the death of the pet. Specifically, the person must have been acting unlawfully and either intentionally or negligently. Under this bill, damages would be limited to $5,000 for the loss of the reasonably expected companionship, love and affection of the pet.

Maine LD 858 Would allow a sheriff, local law enforcement officer, or animal- Introduced (HP 607) control officer to determine whether a dog is ‘dangerous’ and 3/7/17 requires the court to take that determination into account when making a decision regarding a ‘dangerous dog.’ It also would require the officer who determines a dog to be dangerous to apply for an ex parte order to take possession of the dog.

Maine LD 982 (SP Would authorize nonprofit, licensed animal shelters to apply for Failed on 321) authorization to take possession of abandoned or cruelly 4/25/17 treated animals or to cause these animals to be disposed of humanely.

Maryland HB 216/SB Specifies that prohibitions on the practice of veterinary Signed into 269 medicine do not apply to emergency veterinary care. law on 5/4/17 Specifically, this law provides persons immunity from civil liability if he or she practices emergency veterinary aid, care, or assistance to an animal when the owner is not available to grant permission under specified circumstances.

Maryland HB 334/SB Requires a person to obtain a kennel license if that person Signed into 573 owns or has custody of 8 or more un-spayed female dogs law on 5/4/17 (decreased from 15) over the age of 6 months kept for the purpose of breeding the dogs and selling their offspring; or, is selling dogs from six or more litters a year.

Maryland HB 602/SB Prohibits the owner of cattle, swine, or poultry from Signed into 422 administering, or authorizing an agent to administer, specified law on antimicrobial drugs without an antimicrobial drug prescription or 5/27/17 a veterinary feed directive issued by a licensed veterinarian. It also would require an owner to submit to the State Department of Agriculture a copy of an antimicrobial drug prescription or a veterinary feed directive in a specified manner.

Maryland HB 1463 Requires a veterinary practitioner who has reason to believe Signed into that an animal has been subjected to cruelty or fighting to law on report the suspected cruelty/fighting to the appropriate law 4/11/17 enforcement or county animal control agency in a timely manner.

Maryland SB 444 Would prohibit a person from intentionally inflicting bodily harm, Sine-Die permanent disability, or death on a service animal except in the Failed case of self-defense. Additionally, this bill would define “false representation.” Specifically, it would prohibit falsely representing that an animal is a service animal for the purpose of obtaining: 1) Any right or privilege established or 2) Admittance of the service animal to any place as provided.

Massachuset H 1997 Would specify that every registered equine dental practitioner Introduced ts shall annually pay to the Board a license fee to be determined 1/23/17 annually by the Commissioner of Administration. It also would require an equine dental practitioner seeking license renewal to present evidence of the successful completion of such continuing education as the Board shall require.

Massachuset H 2290 Would change the legal status of “pets” from “personal Introduced ts property” to companion animals.” It would define a “companion 1/23/17 animal” as a dog, cat or any domesticated animal and domesticated animals shall include birds, rabbits, hamsters, ferrets, or any animal sharing a home with a caregiver. This bill would prohibit a companion animal from being left outside during extreme weather.

Massachuset H 3683 Would specify that if any dog owner negligently permits their Introduced ts dog to cause damage to the property of any person, including 3/23/17 an animal, or to cause injury to any person, then the owner or keeper shall be punished by a fine of not more than $2,500.

Massachuset S 882 Would hold a person liable who by willful, wanton, reckless, or Introduced ts negligent act, or omission kills, or causes the death of, an 1/23/17 animal companion. Specifically, a person would be liable in damages for the fair monetary value of the deceased animal to his or her human companions, including damages for the loss of the reasonably expected society, companionship, comfort,

protection and services of the deceased animal to his or her human companions. Non-economic damages shall have a capped value of $25,000.

Michigan HB Would amend the sentencing guideline scores for certain acts Introduced 4333/SB of animal cruelty. 3/8/17 277 Michigan HB 4284 Would specify that the Director shall not transmit information, Introduced from the Michigan Prescription Drug Monitoring System, unless 2/28/17 he or she has entered into an agreement with the prescription drug monitoring system in the jurisdiction. Specifically, this bill would require the agreement to provide for the mutual exchange of information and limit the use of the information only as authorized in and subject to the same restrictions of this section.

Michigan HB 4813 This legislation would require that a Class B animal dealer or Introduced employee of an animal shelter receive a minimum of 16 hours 7/12/17 of training in the use of a commercially prepared, pre-mixed solution of sodium pentobarbital and an animal tranquilizer in order to perform euthanasia on animals. The training must include at least 12 hours of content training and at least 4 hours of practical training, must be from a program approved by the State Veterinarian and must comply with the AVMA Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals.

Michigan SB 416 Would add new requirements for animal-control agencies that Introduced have seized animals trained or used for fighting – or animals 5/31/17 that are the first- or second-generation offspring of an animal trained or used for fighting. Specifically, if the animal is found fit for placement, this bill would require the animal control agency to sterilize the animal or collect a good-faith deposit for sterilization. It would require that the agency provide a copy of the animal’s history, including, but no limited to, a description of why the animal was seized and any veterinary records.

Michigan SB 496 Would prohibit an owner from leaving or confining an animal in Introduced an unattended motor vehicle under conditions that endanger 6/28/17 the health or well-being of the animal. Specifically, this legislation would apply to heat, cold, lack of adequate ventilation, lack of food or water, or other circumstances that could reasonably be expected to cause suffering, disability, or the death of an animal. Michigan SB 498 Would specify that a farm owner or operator shall not tether or Introduced confine any specified animal on a farm for all, or the majority of, 6/28/17 any day in a manner that prevents such animal from doing either of the following: (1) lying down, standing up, or fully extending its limbs; or (2) turning around freely.

However, this legislation would not apply to egg-laying hens and gestating sows until October 12, 2019.

Minnesota HF Would specify that a person may not knowingly euthanize or Introduced 2054/SF authorize the euthanasia of any pet or companion animal in a 3/2/17 1357 private or public animal shelter, humane society, society for the prevention of cruelty to animals, animal control facility, or pound by the use of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, or other non-anesthetic gas.

Minnesota HF Would require the Board of Veterinary Medicine to adopt rules Introduced 2652/SF by January 1, 2018, establishing uniform labeling requirements 5/9/17 2425 for products containing xylitol that adequately warn the public of the toxicity of these products to pets.

Minnesota HF 2686 Would broaden liability established for attacks to include all Introduced pets or companion animals. 5/18/17

Minnesota SF 1711 Would allow a pharmacist working within a pharmacy licensed Introduced in the ‘veterinary pharmacy’ license category to compound and 3/2/17 provide a drug product to a veterinarian without first receiving a patient-specific prescription when certain conditions are met.

Missouri HB 905/SB Would limit the authority of any village, town, or city, including Sine-Die 446 any home rule city, to regulate dogs in a breed-specific Failed manner.

Missouri HB Would require all registrants who dispense controlled Sine-Die 1102/SB substances to maintain dispensing records and report the Failed 74 dispensing to the Department's prescription-drug monitoring program.

Montana HB 570 Would a commercial breeder to be licensed annually, as well Died in as be subject to inspections. Committee on 4/28/17 Montana HB 582 Would require a commercial pet breeder to obtain a business Died in license from the Board in order to engage in the business of Committee breeding, selling, exchanging, leasing, or transferring dogs or on 4/28/17 cats.

Montana SB 187 Prohibits the importation of certain animal body parts from Signed into Chronic Wasting Disease states. law on 5/5/17

Montana Dept. of Would specify that eligible cattle imported into Montana require Proposed Livestock/3 the following: 7/21/17 2-17-285 a. a negative tuberculosis test within 60 days prior to importation; and b. proof of a whole-herd negative tuberculosis test on the birth herd of origin.

Additionally, this regulation would require official ear tags to be issued to and applied by alternative livestock veterinarians or other department-designated agents. Alternative livestock veterinarians would be able to choose to delegate authority to apply tags to an alternative livestock licensee within the context of a valid veterinarian-client-patient-relationship.

Montana Dpt. This new regulation would amend the definition of “livestock” to Proposed Revenue/4 specify that honey bees are the only type of bees that need to 8/4/17 2-2-971 be reported for the purposes of state livestock fees.

Nebraska LB 642 Beginning on January 1, 2019, this legislation would require a Withdrawn licensed veterinarian to report a dispensed prescription of on 1/24/17 Schedule II, III, and IV controlled substances.

Nevada AB 391 Specifies that a person who commits the crime of bestiality is Signed into guilty of a gross misdemeanor, except that the penalty is law on increased to a category C felony if: 5/23/17 (1) the animal dies or suffers serious bodily injury as the result of the crime; or (2) the person has a previous felony conviction for animal cruelty. This bill authorizes the court to order a person convicted of the crime of bestiality to meet certain conditions, including counseling and reimbursing the animal owner for veterinary care.

Nevada SB 371 Deletes the 2-week limit on existing liens upon a peace officer Signed into or certain other persons who forcibly remove a cat or dog from law on 6/1/17 a motor vehicle during a period of extreme heat or cold.

Nevada SB 409 Prohibits allowing a dog or cat to remain unattended in a Signed into parked or standing motor vehicle if: law on 6/4/17 a. Conditions, including, without limitation, extreme heat or cold, present a significant risk to the health and safety of the cat or dog; or b. The engine of the motor vehicle is running, unless there is a person who is at least 12 years of age present in the motor vehicle with the cat or dog.

Nevada SB 411 Authorizes the Board of County Commissioners, the governing Signed into body of a city or the town board, or Board of County law on 6/2/17 Commissioners within the limits of an unincorporated town to establish a program for the managed care of feral cat colonies. It also would provide an exception from that prohibition for the release of a feral cat that has been provided care and treatment in accordance with a program for the managed care of feral cat colonies.

New HB 290 Requires dogs or cats to be held in quarantine for a minimum Signed into Hampshire of four months and ferrets shall be held for a minimum of six law on 6/7/17 months if an owner is unwilling to destroy the dog, cat, or ferret. In addition, it would require that dogs, cats, or ferrets to be immediately re-vaccinated against rabies and be confined for a period of 45 days following re-vaccination.

New HB 291 Removes veterinarians from the definition of a “practitioner” Signed into Hampshire under the Controlled Drug Prescription Health and Safety law on Program. It also removes the requirement that veterinarians 6/19/17 submit information no more than seven days from the date the prescription was dispensed.

New Mexico HB 447 Would provide pet owners or designated caregivers an Sine-Die exemption from the Veterinary Practice Act for the following: Failed 1. Injecting a pet with insulin as prescribed by a licensed veterinarian; 2. Vaccinating a pet against diseases other than rabies; or 3. Implanting a pet with a microchip containing owner identification information.

New Jersey A 3899 Would prohibit surgical declawing of cats and other animals, Introduced except for documented therapeutic purposes. Any person who 6/16/16 violates this provision would be guilty of a ‘disorderly persons’ offense, which is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, a term of imprisonment of up to six months, or both. A violator would also be subject to a civil penalty of between $500 and $2,000.

New Jersey A 4392 Would establish continuing education course requirements for Introduced certified animal-control officers. 12/12/16

New Jersey A 4770 Would provide immunity from civil liability to veterinarians and Introduced emergency responders who, in good faith, render emergency 5/11/17 care to an animal at the scene of an accident or emergency.

New Jersey A 4797 Would allow a gross income-tax deduction for pet owners for Introduced certain medical expenses. Modeled upon the medical expense 5/18/17 deduction allowed for individuals and family members, pet medical-care expenses under this bill may only be deducted if the annual expenses paid are not reimbursed, and are greater than 1 percent of the taxpayer’s annual gross income.

New Jersey A 4770/S Would provide immunity from civil liability to veterinarians and Introduced 3134 emergency responders who in good faith render emergency 5/11/17 & care to an animal at the scene of an accident or emergency. 5/8/17

New Jersey A 4885 Would require kennels and veterinary facilities to provide for Introduced the supervision of dogs, training of employees, and 6/1/17 maintenance of certain records.

New York A 3440/S Would allow a pharmacist to dispense drugs, including Introduced 4360 veterinary-specific compounded medications, to a veterinarian. 1/27/17 It also would allow a veterinarian to possess and keep in stock, for administration and sale, such drugs pursuant to a non- patient specific regimen prescribed or ordered by any licensed practitioner of veterinary medicine.

New York A 4749 Would hold a person liable if he or she intentionally, recklessly, Introduced or negligently, by act or omission, causes the death of a 2/3/17 companion animal with no justifiable purpose. Specifically, a person would be liable in damages for the fair monetary value of the deceased companion animal to his or her owner, including damages for the loss of the reasonable expected society, companionship, comfort, protection, and services of the deceased companion animal.

New York A 5609 Would specify that an officer or a person may take necessary Introduced steps to remove an animal or animals from a vehicle. 2/10/17 Specifically, this bill would define “necessary steps” as: 1) Checking to see if any of the doors to the vehicle are unlocked; 2) Making a good faith effort to locate the owner of the vehicle; and 3) Calling the police or 911. If all these steps have been met, a person may break a window to remove the animal from the vehicle if he or she determines an animal is in imminent danger.

New York A 7812/S Would hold that any veterinarian who provides off-site Introduced 5716 instruction to any certified first responder or emergency medical 5/16/17 technician providing emergency medical assistance to a dog or cat is not liable for damages for injuries or death alleged to have been sustained, except in the event of negligence.

New York A 8081/S Would grant a taxpayer credit for the cost of spay or neuter Introduced 1678 services performed. Specifically, this tax credit would be for 80 5/25/17 percent of the actual cost of such services, but shall not exceed a maximum credit of $200.

New York A 8526 Would prohibit a pet dealer from selling a cat, dog or rabbit, Introduced unless such animal was obtained from a duly incorporated 6/19/17 humane society dedicated to the care of unwanted animals; a public animal-control agency or shelter; society for the prevention of cruelty to animals’ shelter; or animal rescue or adoption organization. This would not include breeders who sell animals.

New York A 8575 Would prohibit any person from engaging in the non- Introduced therapeutic use of antimicrobial agents in cattle, poultry, sheep, 7/10/17 swine, or any other animal raised for the purpose of providing food. Specifically, this bill would include animals that provide non-meat food products such as eggs and milk.

It also would ban any person from selling, exposing for sale, or transporting for sale any food product derived from an animal that has been subject to non-therapeutic use of antimicrobial agents, regardless of the animal’s origin.

New York S 6182 Would specify that no provision of law shall prohibit any person Introduced from releasing a feral cat which has been trapped and spayed 5/11/17 or neutered. It would define a “feral cat” as a domesticated cat

that was formerly owned, that has been abandoned and is no longer socialized, and any offspring or such cat.

North Carolina HB 179 Would establish standards of care for large commercial dog Introduced breeding facilities and to provide law enforcement with the tools 2/22/17 needed to ensure that dogs, at those facilities, are being treated humanely.

North Carolina HB 243/SB Would require that the Department, beginning February 1, Signed into 175 2019, to report to the North Carolina Veterinary Medical Board law on on data reported to the controlled substances reporting system. 6/29/17 Specifically, the report shall include information about targeted controlled substances reported to the system during the preceding calendar year.

North Carolina HB 546/SB Would specify that the recommendations and guidelines Introduced 74 specified by the National Association of State Public Health 3/30/17 Veterinarians in the most current edition of the Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control shall be the required control measures.

North Carolina SB 196 Would exempt any farrier or person actively engaged in the Signed into activity or profession of shoeing hooved animals, from the law on practice of veterinary medicine, as long as his or her actions 7/20/17 are limited to the art of shoeing hooved animals or trimming, clipping, or maintaining hooves. This bill would allow that the Veterinary Division of the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to study the practice of veterinary pharmaceutical compounding (VPC).

North Dept. of Would deem veterinary costs as eligible expenses under the Proposed Carolina Agriculture Animal Shelter Support Fund. Specifically, local governments 6/1/17 & can request reimbursement for veterinary expenditures Consumer incurred for the assessment, diagnostic and triage evaluation, Services/0 medical treatment, minor surgical treatment, medications, first 2 NCAC aid and minor medical supplies, vaccinations, parasite 52J. 0901- control/treatment or euthanasia of animals housed at the 02 shelter.

North Dakota Board of It is acceptable for any licensed pharmacy to compound Finalized on Pharmacy/ veterinary drug products to be used by veterinarians in their 4/1/17 NDCC 61- office for administration to client’s animals. These compounded 02-01-03- office use products may be dispensed to clients for use in a 9(b) single treatment episode, not to exceed a 120-hour supply.

North Dakota HB 1272 Would specify that reliable supporting documentation may be Signed into provided by a physician or medical professional who does not law on operate primarily to provide certification for service or 4/13/17 assistance animals. This bill would find an individual is guilty if the individual, in an attempt to obtain a reasonable housing accommodation, provides fraudulent disability documentation indicating a disability that requires the use of a service animal.

North Dakota HB 1348 Would allow a law enforcement officer to petition the court for Signed into an order directing the seizure of an animal and a court to act law on without an animal’s owner notice upon the recommendation 3/14/17 from a licensed veterinarian approved by the Board of Animal Health.

Ohio HB 1 Would allow a court order of protection to require that the Introduced respondent not remove, damage, hide, harm, or dispose of any 2/1/17 companion animal owned or possessed by the petitioner alleging dating violence. It also would allow a court order to authorize the petitioner, alleging dating violence, to remove a companion animal owned by that petitioner from the possession of the respondent.

Ohio HB 147 Would set forth the requirements for being appointed a humane Introduced society agent in the State of Ohio. Specifically, this bill would 3/21/17 require an individual to successfully complete a minimum of twenty hours of training on issues relating to the investigation and prosecution of cruelty to and neglect of animals.

Ohio HB 303 Would specify that a place of public accommodation cannot Introduced prohibit a disabled person from using a service animal. 7/5/17 However, this bill would allow places of public accommodation to ask a disabled person to remove a service animal from the premises if either of the following applies: (1) the animal is out of control and the individual or the animal's handler does not take effective action to control it; or (2) the animal is not housebroken.

Ohio State Would specify that a licensed veterinarian may maintain a Proposed Board of supply of dangerous drugs obtained from a licensed terminal 5/26/17 Pharmacy/ distributor of dangerous drugs in order to treat current or 4729-9-05 prospective patients that cannot be reasonably treated at a licensed location.

Ohio State Would require that all prescriptions issued by a prescriber Proposed Board of contain the following information: 6/16/17 Pharmacy/ 1) The physical address of the prescriber’s practice 4729-5-30 location; and 2) The patient’s residential address with physical street address.

Additionally, all prescriptions issued on paper shall be manually signed on the day issued by the prescriber as well as issued in compliance with other provisions of the Administrative Code.

Oregon HB 2991 Would prohibit animal rescue entities from euthanizing an Failed-Died in animal or transferring custody of an animal for euthanasia. Committee

Oregon SB 222 Would require the Oregon State Veterinary Medical Examining Failed-Died in Board to adopt rules mandating all persons, licensed to Committee practice veterinary medicine, to provide a written prescription for animal medication to an animal owner.

Oregon SB 422 Would establish the crime of equine soring, as a Class A Failed-Died in misdemeanor, and makes this crime punishable with a Committee maximum of one year in prison, a $6,250 fine, or both. If an individual is convicted of this crime, this legislation would bar that person from possessing an equine for a period of five (5) years following the entry of the conviction.

Oregon SB 785 Would prohibit provision of medically important antibiotic to Failed-Died in food-producing animals except as recommended by licensed Committee veterinarian for certain purposes. Specifically, it would make this prohibition operative January 1, 2019. This bill would require the operator of concentrated animal feeding operation to file an annual report regarding provision of medically important antibiotics to food-producing animals at operation. It also would require reporting for activities conducted on or after January 1, 2018.

Pennsylvania HB 246 Would define what constitutes “aggravated cruelty.” This bill Introduced would increase the penalty for the first conviction of animal 1/31/17 cruelty to a third degree misdemeanor and penalties for second and subsequent violations to a second degree misdemeanor. It also would stipulate that, should exposure to extreme temperatures and/or weather result in the death of an animal, the penalty shall be graded as a first degree misdemeanor.

Pennsylvania HB 323 Would make it a summary offense to tether a dog outside and Introduced unattended to any stationary object between the hours of 2/3/17 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m . Upon conviction, the owner would also be subject to forfeiture of the dog.

Pennsylvania HB 1463 Would allow the state to establish, operate, and maintain, a Introduced dog-licensing website capable of selling dog licenses online in 5/31/17 each county and processing payment thereof, capable of processing and issuing dog license certificates and tags, and capable of maintaining a registry of all licensed dogs in Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania HB 1647 Would allow county sheriffs and the State Police to establish Introduced local and central registries of animal-abuse offenders. 7/7/17 Specifically, this bill would require persons convicted of an animal-abuse crime to register their names, aliases, addresses, place of employment, date of birth, social security number, a recent photo and the offense for which they were convicted with the county sheriff within ten days.

This information would be kept on the registry for seven years. Any individuals with two convictions would have their information on the registry for 15 years. Anyone with three or more convictions will be subject to lifetime registration.

Pennsylvania HB 1652 Would allow parties in divorce proceedings to enter into an Introduced enforceable agreement regarding the possession or care, or 7/8/17 both, of a companion animal. Specifically, these agreements can contain the following information:

1. the periods of time during which each party will possess the companion animal; and 2. the financial responsibility of each party regarding the care of the companion animal.

Pennsylvania SB 176 Would require a social services employee to report any Introduced reasonable suspicion, that an animal is the victim of cruelty, to 1/31/17 an agent of a society or association for the prevention of animal cruelty that is incorporated under the laws of Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania SB 298 Would provide immunity for a licensed doctor of veterinary Introduced medicine, certified veterinary technician, or veterinary assistant 3/21/17 who reports, in good faith and in the normal course of business, a suspected incident of animal cruelty to the property authority.

Pennsylvania SB 808 Would exempt any person who renders emergency care, first Introduced aid, or rescue to an animal at the scene of an emergency from 6/29/17 the Veterinary Medicine Practice Act.

Pennsylvania SB 816 Would require owners of first-time offending dogs which inflict Introduced severe injury to: 7/6/17 1. Muzzle and restrain the dog in public places or while guests are invited on the owner’s property (the muzzle must not cause injury to the dog or interfere with the dog’s vision or respiration); 2. Post signage on property warning visitors of the dog’s presence; and 3. Pay restitution towards the victim. Rhode Island Dpt. of This proposed repeal reflects a new law that prohibits the Proposed Environ. destruction of animals by carbon monoxide poisoning and 8/11/17 Managemen supersedes existing regulations. t/8753 Rhode Island HB Would require a court to appoint an animal advocate to make Introduced 5161/SB recommendations regarding the welfare of the animal in any 3/2/17 390 case in which the custody or well-being of an animal is at issue.

Rhode Island HB 5214 Would allow a trier of fact to find an individual liable up to five Introduced thousand dollars ($5,000) in non-economic damages if a 1/26/17 person’s pet or companion animal is killed or sustains injuries which result in death caused by the unlawful and intentional, or negligent act of another. However, this liability would only be assessed if such death is caused by the negligent or intentional act of another, the death or fatal injury must occur on the property of the deceased pet's owner or caretaker, or while under the control and supervision of the deceased pet's owner or caretaker.

Rhode Island HB Would remove certain restrictions on who can perform routine Signed into 5470/SB husbandry procedures on livestock and would allow a licensed law on 7/5/17 559 human medical practitioner to assist a licensed veterinarian.

Rhode Island HB 6023 Would make changes in the definitions of what constitutes Introduced unlawful confinement of any sow during gestation, calf raised 3/29/17 for veal, or egg-laying hen kept on a farm. It also would prohibit the sale of certain animal products that are the product of covered animals and their offspring that were confined in a cruel manner.

Rhode Island HB 6216 Would prohibit the rental or lease of a dog or cat, and would Introduced prohibit loan agreements that use animals as collateral. It 5/12/17 would not prohibit the temporary leasing or rental of purebred dogs for breeding, animals used in shows and exhibitions, and working animals, such as guide dogs.

Rhode Island HB 6357 Would impose requirements on pet breeders that are already in Introduced place for other pet custodial agencies. It would also specify that 6/22/17 no person shall act as a breeder unless they possess a valid license to operate as a breeder.

South Carolina H 3069 Would require that a person who holds himself or herself out as Introduced a handler, trainer, or keeper of domestic animals or who 12/15/16 undertakes to house, board, or provide food, shelter, care, maintenance, or the necessities of life for domestic animals must meet the following requirements: 1) Education, 2) Training, 3) Experience, 4) Undergo a criminal background check, and 5) Be license and bonded.

South Carolina H 3619 Would prohibit a person from piercing or tattooing a companion Introduced animal unless the piercing or tattooing provides for the 1/31/17 identification of the companion animal or provides a medical benefit to the companion animal. Any piercing or tattooing would be required to perform by a licensed veterinarian or under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian.

South Carolina H 3926/S Would revise minimum good compounding practices and Introduced 497 provide a pharmacist to perform a final check on a preparation 3/7/17 compounded by a pharmacy technician.

South Dakota HB 1159 Would allow the Board, a law enforcement officer, or an agent Signed into or officer of a humane society to enter with a warrant and law on inspect the commercial breeding operation within a reasonable 3/27/17 time frame upon receiving a verified complaint. Specifically, this bill would define a verified complaint consists of a report made to law enforcement containing factual allegations and the name and address of the person making the complaint.

Tennessee HB 265/SB Would specify that a person shall not operate, attempt to Introduced 282 operate, or offer to operate as a commercial dog breeder 2/1/17 before registering with the Department. All registrations issued would expire within two years from the date of the initial registration or renewal date of an existing registration and an individual must be 18 years of age or older to register.

Tennessee HB Would require any public or private agency, animal shelter, or Signed into 1103/SB other facility operated to know or should know, by identification law on 5/3/17 989 or vaccination tags, implanted microchip, personal knowledge, or otherwise that a dog or cat has an owner before an animal is spayed or neutered. Specifically, this bill would mandate that an animal be held for at least forty-eight (48) hours from the time the dog or cat is brought to the facility.

Tennessee SB 849 Would stipulate that the practice of veterinary medicine does Signed into not include massage therapy to animals, which means the law on manipulation of the soft tissues of the animal body with the 5/11/17 intention of positively affecting the health and well-being of the animal. Specifically, massage therapy would not include the diagnosis, treatment, correction, alleviation, or prevention of any animal disease, illness, pain, deformity, defect, injury, or other physical or mental condition.

Texas HB Would prohibit an owner from leaving a dog outside and Sine Die- 1156/SB unattended, by use of a restraint, unless the owner provides Failed 1090 the dog access to: 1. Adequate Shelter; 2. An area that allows the dog to avoid standing water; 3. Shade from direct sunlight; and 4. Potable water.

Texas HB Would require a veterinarian to submit a record of each Signed into 2967/SB controlled substance dispensed to the Texas State Board of law on 6/9/17 319 Pharmacy. It also would prohibit a veterinarian from providing a prescription for, or deliver a drug, to a client unless the veterinarian has reviewed the prescription and dispensing history of animals associated with the client by accessing the information submitted to the Texas State Board of Pharmacy.

Texas HB Would require a controlled substance prescription to show the Sine Die- 3208/SB name, species, gender, and actual or estimated date of birth of Failed 316 the animal as well as the name and address of the animal’s owner. This bill would require a veterinarian to report to the Board when he or she dispenses a Schedule II, III, IV, or V controlled substance directly to the owner or handler of an animal no later than the next business day.

Texas HB 3998 Would include certain activities, performed by an animal Sine Die- shelter, releasing agency, or shelter veterinarian, within the Failed practice of veterinary medicine. This bill would specify that a shelter veterinarian may perform the following after an animal shelter or releasing agency takes possession of an animal: 1. Perform a surgical or non-surgical sterilization of a dog or cat, 2. Administer or prescribe a vaccine or drug to the animal, or 3. Provide any other treatment that the veterinarian reasonably believes will promote the animal's health and welfare or alleviate the animal's pain, suffering, or discomfort.

Texas SB 1930 Would specify that an institution of higher education shall Sine Die- assess the health of a retired research animal on its retirement Failed to determine whether the animal has a substantial medical condition that prevents the animal from successfully integrative into an adoptive home. Specifically, an institution would offer an animal, with no such condition, for adoption through an animal rescue organization, animal shelter, or an individual through an arrangement between the institution and individual.

Utah HB 50 Would limit the number of days for which an opiate may be Signed into prescribed for certain individuals. It also amends provisions of law on the Controlled Substances Database Act related to provider 3/22/17 use of the database.

Utah HB 421 Would require an animal shelter to publish certain information Sine-Die regarding animals in the animal shelter's custody including the Failed disposition of the animals. It also would require an animal shelter to maintain published information for at least three (3) years after the date on which the animal shelter first published the information.

Utah SB 56 Would set forth the methods by which an animal shelter may Sine-Die euthanize an animal. Additionally, it would require an animal Failed shelter to adopt euthanasia policy and training programs.

Vermont H 204 Would amend standards relating to the care of domestic pets, Sine-Die including standards for activities and programs intended to Failed reduce the number of cats without homes, such as capturing, spaying or neutering, vaccination, and return of unowned cats.

Vermont H 416 Would prohibit municipal government from banning or Sine-Die regulating animals on a breed-specific basis. Failed

Vermont H 506 Would add the definition of a veterinarian-client-patient Signed into relationship (VCPR) that exists when all of the listed conditions law on are met. 5/23/17

Vermont S 123 Would provide immunity from liability for animal shelter and Sine-Die rescue organizations that are assisting law enforcement in Failed cruelty cases.

Virginia Bd. of This new regulation would establish licensure requirements for Proposed Veterinary veterinarians who are employed in a veterinary medical 7/24/17 Medicine/R education program located in the Commonwealth, as well as 17-4926 establish a temporary license for interns/residents. It would establish a $100 fee for initial licensure of a faculty member, a $75 annual renewal fee, and a $25 late renewal fee. It also would create an initial and annual renewal fee for intern/resident licenses of $25.

Virginia HB 1802 Would prohibit a companion animal from being tethered Failed on outdoors unless its owner is outdoors within the sight of the 2/7/17 animal.

Virginia HB 2381 Would amend the definition of a “dangerous dog.” Specifically, Signed into a canine or canine crossbreed would not be considered a law on dangerous dog if, upon investigation, a law enforcement officer 3/13/17 or animal control officer finds that: 1. No serious physical injury, as determined by a licensed veterinarian, has occurred to the dog or cat as a result of the attack or bite; 2. Both animals are owned by the same person; or 3. Such attack occurred on the property of the attacking or biting dog’s owner or custodian.

Virginia SB 1218 Would prohibit any person for killing a companion animal, by Sine-Die shooting or by any other manner, unless the dog or cat poses Failed an immediate threat or serious physical harm to a person or is in extreme physical distress and no veterinary care is available without a delay that would cause further suffering.

Washington HB Would not allow a city or county to prohibit the possession of a Introduced 1090/SB dog based on its breed, impose specific requirements in order 1/11/17 5094 to possess a dog based on its breed, or declare a dog dangerous or potentially dangerous based on its breed unless certain conditions have been met.

Washington HB 1361 Would require animal massage therapists and food fish guides Introduced to register with Washington effective licensing port. It also 1/18/17 would require that a person offering or performing, whether for compensation or not, horse teeth floating to register with the Washington effective licensing port.

Washington HB 2247 Would give fish and wildlife officers the authority to lethally Introduced remove a feral dog if the dog poses a threat to human safety, 7/3/17 domestic animals, or livestock. It also would require an owner to guarantee a ‘dangerous’ dog has at least two of the following forms of identification: 1. a registered animal microchip; 2. an identifying tattoo that is registered with the animal- control authority; or 3. clearly visible tags with contact information of the owner. 4. Washington SB 5424 Would prohibit the tethering of domestic dogs. Specifically, this Introduced bill would prohibit any individual from restraining a domestic 1/24/17 dog for more than 10 hours, in a 12 hour period, or more than 14 hours, in a 24 hour period, using certain kinds of tether, chain, trolley, or pulley system.

Washington Dpt. of Would change the requirement that rams must be tested Proposed Agriculture/ negative on an ELISA test for Brucella ovis within thirty (30) 4/19/17 17-09-077 days before entering Washington state to sixty (60) days. It also would remove the Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) test exemption for equine moving to Washington from Idaho and Oregon and the M. bovis test requirement for old world primates, gibbons, and great apes.

Washington Departmen Would provide for temporary practice permits to be issued to Pre-proposed t of military spouses or state-registered domestic partners who hold 5/16/17 Health/WS an out-of-state credential as a veterinarian. R 17-11- 060 West Virginia HB 2437 Would define animal husbandry and teeth floating. Specifically, Sine-Die this bill would exempt persons performing animal husbandry Failed from veterinary license requirements.

West Virginia HB 2816 Would exempt the furnishing of professional services, by Sine-Die certain medical practitioners, from imposed taxes on July 1, Failed 2017. However, this exemption would not apply to services furnished by veterinarians.

West Virginia HB 2905 Would prevent animal cruelty by requiring the maintenance of a Sine-Die public animal shelter and providing for the inspection of animal Failed shelters by humane officers or others. It also would establish certain standards for animal shelters and provide consequences for failing to follow these standards.

West Virginia SB 618 Would allow continuing education credits for veterinarians who Sine-Die provide free spaying and neutering and other related veterinary Failed services under certain circumstances.

West Virginia Board of Would set the following schedule of fees: Proposed Veterinary 1. Veterinary license renewal fee: $250 6/12/17 Medicine/2 2. Veterinary inactive license fee: $75 6-06 3. Veterinary inactive license reactivation fee: $250 4. Certified Animal Euthanasia Technician application, Rules and Practice Act, examination, and certification fee: $110 5. Certified Animal Euthanasia Technician continuing- education program fee: $250 6. Written confirmation of licensure, registration, or certification: $25 7. Duplicate license, registration, or certification certificate: $25.

West Virginia Board of Would modify application requirements for certified euthanasia Proposed Veterinary technicians, including a criminal history check for new 6/12/17 Medicine/2 applicants. It also would remove the requirements for animal 6-065 euthanasia by carbon monoxide since the state no longer registers such facilities.

West Virginia Board of Would modify certain veterinary licensure and application Proposed Veterinary requirements, including a criminal history check for new 6/12/17 Medicine/2 applicants. Would also change CE requirements for new 6-01 graduate licensees as well as late renewals per the following:

 At least 18 (50 min) units of CE will be required each calendar year.  A minimum of 14 hours shall be related to the practice of veterinary medicine, including scientific, laboratory, regulatory, and medical record keeping. No more than 4

hours shall be related to practice management.  Classroom or online courses will be permitted.

Wyoming Livestock Would amend the procedures for the import of animals and Proposed Board/ biologic agents into the state of Wyoming. Specifically, this 6/9/17 Chapter 8 regulation would require that all animals imported into Wyoming shall be accompanied by a paper or digital Interstate Certificate of Veterinary Inspection.

Wyoming Livestock Would require that all applicable sections of the Certificates of Proposed Board/ Veterinary Inspection and Official Forms shall be filled out 6/9/17 Chapter 14 legibly, and all necessary information must be included – especially the accredited veterinarian’s printed name, contact information, accreditation, license number, and signature, as well as the complete names and addresses of the owner(s) and/or consignor(s).