The proposed pet registration bill, which had garnered widespread attention, has been postponed indefinitely. This bill, introduced by Democratic Representative Regina English from El Paso County, aimed to establish a comprehensive pet registration system in the state.
The bill, known formally as HB24-1163, was introduced on January 31, 2024. Its primary objective was to create the “Pet Animal Registration System.” Under this proposed system, residents of Colorado would have been required to register each pet animal in their household. This registration was not merely a bureaucratic formality; it was intended to serve a crucial function in connecting pets with their owners and designated caregivers, especially during emergencies that incapacitate the pet owner.
As per the details of the bill, the registration fees were structured as follows:
- Up to $8.50 per year for each pet animal with a designated caregiver.
- Up to $16 per year for dogs or cats that are not spayed or neutered.
- Up to $25 per year if a pet animal did not have a designated caregiver.