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Wednesday, February 17, 2010                                                            

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Rep. Tyler Olson, 515-281-3221

LEGISLATION TO PROTECT PETS &
PET OWNERS CLEARS HOUSE

Des Moines, Iowa – State Representative Tyler Olson of Cedar Rapids today voted for legislation designed to better protect pets and pet owners from irresponsible pet breeders.  A key provision will increase the number of state inspectors to respond to animal health and safety complaints involving USDA licensed facilities.

“This will ensure that all companion animals bred and raised in Iowa are healthy and safe,” said Olson. “It will also protect Iowa pet owners from being taken advantage of by irresponsible breeders and improve accountability in the industry.”

House File 2280 increases penalties for unlicensed facilities and requires continuing education for breeders with violations of the federal Animal Welfare Act.  It also increases enforcement of uncollected sales tax on the sale of dogs and cats. Many of Iowa’s neighboring states already provide state inspection of USDA licensed breeders, including Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas and Nebraska.

The bill now goes to the Senate for approval.

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