§ 14-54-1105 — Working animal protection - Definition

(a) (1) As used in this section, "working animal" means a nonhuman animal used for the purpose of performing a specific duty or function in commerce or animal enterprise, including without limitation human service, transportation, education, competition, or exhibition. (2) As used in this section, "working animal" does not mean poultry, swine, dairy cows, beef cattle, sheep, goats, or other similar nonperformance production enterprise. (b) (1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, the right to utilize a working animal for the benefit and welfare of the working animal or the individual the working animal serves is guaranteed. (2) An ordinance or resolution shall not be enacted by a municipality that terminates, bans, effectively bans, or creates an undue hardship relating to the job or use of a working animal or animal enterprise in commerce, service, legal hunting, agriculture, husbandry, transportation, ranching, entertainment, education, or exhibition. (c) This section does not alter state laws or rules that regulate animal care, public health, or public safety, including without limitation § 5-62-101 et seq. and § 14-54-103 . (d) This section does not prohibit a municipality from establishing or altering an ordinance regarding animal care, public health, or public safety. (e) This section supersedes a municipal ordinance, resolution, or rule that conflicts with this section but does not supersede a municipal zoning ordinance under § 14-56-401 et seq.

Legislative History

Added by Act 2021, No. 1091,§ 1, eff. 7/28/2021.