A public hearing on HB 1451 will take place at 1:30 p.m. May 12 in Room 2E.20 (the Betty King Committee Room) in the state Capitol. The bill, introduced by Rep. Senfronia Thompson (D- Houston), would treat sporting dog owners the same as commercial dog breeding operations. Sportsmen and sporting dog owners are encouraged to attend. The bill establishes a new definition for “commercial breeder” as any person possessing 11 or more intact adult female dogs that is engaged in the business of breeding dogs for sale. Under this definition, sporting dog owners, kennels, and other hobby breeders could be classified as a commercial breeder without selling a single dog. Additionally, HB 1451 would require all “commercial breeders” to be licensed, inspected, and regulated by the state’s Commission of Licensing and Regulation. It would also require the Commission to enact costly new regulations for dog owners including strict housing guidelines, exercise requirements, mandatory veterinary exams, and many other requirements. Take Action! Sportsmen should plan to attend the hearing and voice their opposition. Sportsmen who are unable to attend the hearing should call their state representative and tell them that this bill could negatively impact many respectable sporting dog owners. To find your state representative’s contact information, please visit http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/
