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Committee hears bill to allow pregnant and lactating animals in foster homes; department seeks clarity on "facility" language
Summary
Lawmakers and animal‑welfare groups debated SB475, which would allow pregnant and nursing animals to be placed in foster homes. The Department of Agriculture supported fostering but urged wording changes to cover non‑residential facilities and to preserve inspection and record‑keeping authority.
Senator Regina Bertzell, prime sponsor of Senate Bill 475, told the House Environment and Agriculture Committee that the bill updates the legal definition of a foster home to allow pregnant and lactating animals to be cared for in appropriate foster settings rather than kept in often crowded shelters. "I am the prime sponsor of Senate Bill 475, which includes a determination of the best interest of the animal in the definition of foster home," she said.
The bill drew support from rescuers who described long experience placing dogs and cats in private residences for medical stabilizing and…
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