Jefferson City, Mo (KSDK) -- Missouri Governor Jay Nixon is proposing an amendment to the budget to provide funding for dog-breeding facilities regulations enforcement.
Governor Nixon said Proposition B and Senate Bill 113 do not provide enough resources to ensure the enforcement of laws designed to protect the health and welfare of dogs.
Proposition B, known as the puppy mill bill, was passed by voters last November in an attempt to stop abuse at dog breeding facilities. The Missouri Senate then passed Bill 113, which amends Proposition B and some of the standards that would be put in place.
The governor released a statement saying he is proposing a budget amendment to ensure whatever is put in place can be funded.
"That is why I am proposing a budget amendment for an additional $1.1 million for the Missouri Department of Agriculture to hire more inspectors, investigators and veterinarians to improve the oversight and regulation of Missouri's dog-breeding facilities," Governor Nixon said. "If a law is on the books, but there is not effective enforcement, it will not accomplish its purpose."
Expenditure Detail
Item Dollar Amount FTE Amount
Field Inspection Staff 140,000 4.00
Veterinarians 195,000 3.00
Investigators 76,000 2.00
Office Support 30,000 1.00
Increased Pgrm Mgr. Duties 13,000
Related Expenses 642,000
Total 1,096,509 10.00
KSDK