Beard supporting legislation to ensure pet health and safety

State Representative John Beard of Decorah is supporting legislation designed to better protect pets and pet owners from irresponsible pet breeders. House File 2280 increases the number of state inspectors to respond to animal health and safety complaints involving USDA licensed facilities. It also 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.

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

The bill now goes to the Iowa Senate after winning approval Wednesday in the Iowa House.