Yesterday, the Iowa House Committee on Agriculture approved an amended bill that makes positive changes to the state’s breeder law to benefit hobbyists and home-based breeders currently considered commercial operations in Iowa.
House File 2298 will likely be soon considered by the full House of Representatives. Iowa residents are urged to contact their State Representatives to ask them to support House File 2298. Visit www.akcgr.org and click on the “Find Your Elected Officials” box to get the name and contact information for your State Representative.
Summary of House File 2298 as Amended:
House File 2298, among other provisions, makes several significant changes to benefit hobbyists currently licensed as commercial breeders in Iowa:
1) Updating the commercial breeder threshold – The new definition would apply to those with seven or more breeding dogs, as opposed to four breeding dogs, thereby alleviating some of the burden on home-based hobbyists, as well as the state.
As amended, the bill defines a breeding dog as one over 12 months of age, ensuring that young puppies are not included in the threshold. All breeders would still be subject to state and local laws regarding the care and treatment of all dogs.
2) Removing the confusing provision regarding out of state dog purchases – The bill would remove the requirement that commercial breeders may only obtain dogs from breeders in other states with a “similar authorization”, attempting to clarify and address a concern raised by many hobbyists currently licensed as a commercial breeder in Iowa.
3) Clarifying laws regarding inspections – The bill establishes tiers for inspections by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS), based on a risk assessment. This would not prevent the department from inspections as necessary, particularly if there is credible evidence that a commercial breeder may be violating the state’s standards of care for dogs.
AKC Government Relations appreciates the efforts being made to address long-standing concerns many home-based breeders have had in complying with current laws. We continue to be in contact with the sponsor to ensure the bill is as clear and effective as possible.
Thank you for contacting your lawmakers. Your voice can make a difference for the future of our breeds.
For questions or more information, contact AKC GR at doglaw@akc.org.