Puppy Mill Bill Passes House

After much delay and some debate, the Puppy Mill Bill passed the Iowa House Wednesday afternoon with a vote of 77-22.

Of the hundreds of bills introduced at the state capitol this year, the so called “Puppy Mill Bill,” HF2820, is getting some of the most attention. CSG does not have an interest in the bill other than observing the furry activity surrounding it.

The bill would raise the licensing fee for breeders to fund inspections of puppy mills after receiving complaints of neglect or mistreatment.

Commercial breeders would be held to a “general standard of care,” which says that the animal must not be lacking adequate food, water, housing, sanitary control, grooming practices affecting the health of the animal, or veterinary care.

The bill creates an interesting dilemma for legislators who don’t want more government involvement in business, but also don’t want to be seen as voting against puppies.

Commercial breeders have been opposed to the bill and fear the department will receive countless complaints from people who dislike puppy farms in general. This could result in unnecessary and costly inspections. Several amendments have been added to the bill which may have changed groups' positions on it.

The Iowa Voters for Companion Animals were at the Statehouse today advocating the passage of the bill which will now move to the Senate as amended.