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Ontario Assembly Bill

Ontario Bill 159

43rd Parl. 1st Sess.
May 29, 2024
Preventing Unethical Puppy Sales Act, 2023
  • This is a bill called Bill 159, which is an amendment to the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act, 2019. The purpose of this bill is to make changes to the regulations regarding the sale and transfer of dogs, as well as the operation of puppy mills. It introduces new definitions, record-keeping requirements, and prohibitions against certain practices in breeding dogs. The bill also includes provisions for penalties and enforcement. Once passed, this bill will be known as the Preventing Unethical Puppy Sales Act, 2023.
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  • RA
  • Yea
  • Nay
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • Steelman Argument: The Bill 159 2023, also known as the Preventing Unethical Puppy Sales Act, aims to amend the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act, 2019 in order to address the issue of puppy mills and unethical puppy sales. This legislation introduces several provisions that are crucial for the welfare and protection of dogs. Firstly, the bill expands the definition of a dog to include animals that are a cross between a dog and another member of the Canis genus, such as wolves or coyotes. This broader definition ensures that all animals falling under this category receive the same level of protection and care as domestic dogs. Secondly, the bill introduces a requirement for record-keeping in relation to dogs. This provision ensures that individuals who meet the prescribed criteria must maintain records as specified by the Lieutenant Governor in Council. This will help in monitoring and regulating the breeding and sale of dogs, ensuring transparency and accountability in the industry. The bill also prohibits the sale or transfer of dogs in violation of the regulations set by the Lieutenant Governor in Council. This provision aims to prevent unethical practices such as the sale of dogs from puppy mills. By imposing restrictions on breeding practices, such as limiting the number of times a female dog can be bred or the age at which breeding can occur, the bill seeks to improve the welfare of dogs and prevent overbreeding. Furthermore, the bill explicitly prohibits the operation of puppy mills. It outlines specific actions that constitute operating a puppy mill, such as breeding a parent dog with any dog in one of their litters or failing to maintain a sanitary environment for the dogs. These provisions aim to eradicate the inhumane conditions and practices associated with puppy mills, ensuring that dogs are not subjected to unnecessary suffering. The bill also grants animal welfare inspectors the power to make reasonable inquiries and demand responses from the owners or custodians of animals. This provision enables inspectors to effectively enforce the regulations and ensure compliance with the law, further safeguarding the welfare of dogs. Additionally, the bill introduces minimum penalties for operating a puppy mill, with higher penalties if the conduct or omission results in the death or euthanization of a dog. These penalties serve as a deterrent and send a strong message that the mistreatment of animals will not be tolerated. Overall, the Preventing Unethical Puppy Sales Act, 2023, provides comprehensive measures to address the issue of puppy mills and unethical puppy sales. By expanding definitions, introducing record-keeping requirements, prohibiting unethical practices, empowering inspectors,

SteelmanSpren Against

  • Steelman Argument Opposing Bill 159 2023: Bill 159 2023, also known as the Preventing Unethical Puppy Sales Act, may seem well-intentioned, but it is an overreach of government power and interferes with the rights of individuals and businesses. This bill introduces unnecessary regulations and restrictions that will burden responsible dog breeders and impede the free market. Here are some key points to consider: 1. Government Overreach: This bill grants the Lieutenant Governor in Council the authority to prescribe criteria for record-keeping and regulate the sale and transfer of dogs. This level of government control infringes on the rights of individuals to engage in lawful business activities without undue interference. 2. Burden on Responsible Breeders: The provisions of this bill, such as limiting the number of times a female dog can be bred or the age at which breeding can occur, unfairly target responsible breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their animals. These restrictions fail to recognize the expertise and knowledge of responsible breeders in maintaining healthy breeding practices. 3. Impact on Small Businesses: The prohibition against operating puppy mills, while well-intentioned, fails to consider the impact on small businesses and breeders who may rely on breeding dogs as their livelihood. Instead of outright banning puppy mills, the government should focus on enforcing existing animal welfare laws and providing support and education to breeders to improve their practices. 4. Lack of Flexibility: The bill's strict regulations do not account for individual circumstances or the unique needs of different breeds. It is unreasonable to impose a one-size-fits-all approach to breeding practices, as it fails to consider the diversity within the dog breeding industry. 5. Excessive Penalties: The bill introduces hefty penalties, including fines of up to $25,000, for operating a puppy mill. While it is important to address cases of animal cruelty and neglect, these penalties may disproportionately affect small-scale breeders who may not have the financial means to comply with all the regulations. In conclusion, while the goal of preventing unethical puppy sales is commendable, Bill 159 2023 goes too far in its regulations and restrictions. It undermines individual rights, burdens responsible breeders, and fails to consider the diverse needs of the dog breeding industry. Instead, the government should focus on enforcing existing animal welfare laws and supporting education and responsible breeding practices.
Second Reading
  • May 29, 2024, noon
  • In Progress
  • Read
First Reading
  • Dec. 4, 2023, noon
  • Passed