CDA approves new pet care rules to enhance animal welfare and safety in Colorado

The Colorado Agricultural Commission convened on May 15, 2025, to discuss significant updates regarding the Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act (PACFA) and the Agricultural Stewardship Tax Credit. The meeting began with an overview of the rulemaking process for PACFA, presented by Nick Fisher, the section chief of the PACFA program.

Fisher detailed the extensive stakeholder engagement that preceded the formal public hearing held on April 24, which included input from over 175 participants and 53 individuals who provided public comments. The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) received more than 200 written comments throughout the process, which were instrumental in shaping the proposed amendments. The updated rules aim to enhance the safety and welfare of pet animals in Colorado by clarifying sterilization requirements, mandating vaccinations for imported pets, and updating facility standards.

The commission unanimously approved the amendments to PACFA, which will now be implemented to ensure better health and safety standards for pet animals and their caretakers.

Following this, Kristen Boysen provided an update on the Agricultural Stewardship Tax Credit, a new program established by House Bill 24-1249. This tax credit incentivizes producers to adopt qualified stewardship practices. Boysen highlighted that the public hearing on this initiative took place on April 18, where feedback led to the inclusion of a new qualified stewardship practice concerning the use of non-neonicotinoid coated seeds. This addition aims to mitigate the negative environmental impacts associated with neonicotinoids, which can harm beneficial insects and soil health.

The commission reviewed and approved the final rules for the Agricultural Stewardship Tax Credit, which will be funded for five years starting in 2026. The meeting concluded with both initiatives receiving the necessary approvals, marking a significant step forward in Colorado's agricultural policies aimed at promoting animal welfare and sustainable farming practices.