Virginia Senate Bill 535 would require research breeders, defined to include “any person or entity that breeds dogs or cats for sale or transfer for use in testing or research” to pay a $100,000 annual registration fee and to submit to unannounced inspections at any day or time by an “Animal Welfare Oversight Officer.” The bill directs the State Veterinarian and the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to promulgate rules to further define compliance requirements for research breeders. The bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Conservation, and Natural Resources.
Opens in a new window
