Fifth Time’s a Charm? Florida Senator Relentlessly Attempts to Codify Pet Cremation Regulation

Tallahassee, Fl- Florida State Senator Gayle Harrell (R) is attempting, for the fifth time, to install state-wide animal cremation standards.

Senator Harrell, who is running for re-election, re-introduced S.B. 22, or “Sevilla’s Law” earlier this week. 

The bill responds to a pet owner’s denunciation of a crematorium’s failure to fulfill the promises they had made to the pet owner regarding cremation processes. 

Specifically, Sevilla the cat was allegedly cremated in conjunction with humans and other animals unbeknownst to her owner.

Absence of laws regarding customer-provider relations have since then been at the crux of debate, with frustrated pet owners pushing for regulation. 

Sevilla’s law, if passed, would compel pet cremation businesses to provide, upon request, written description of the services provided, including notices of joint cremations and if any body parts of the animal will be removed, used, or sold.    

“We want to make sure that little box on your shelf is truly your pet,” stated Harrell. 

 

The bill’s latest introduction represents the fourth attempt at passing it. 

Civil penalties for providers’ noncompliance with the law are also provided. Failure to provide the bill’s required written description of services could result in $1,001 to $1,500 fines for a first offense and $2,000 to $2,500 for any subsequent violations.

Additionally a private right of action would also be afforded to aggrieved pet owners. 

As such, pet owners harmed by a cremation provider’s failure to comply with Sevilla’s law could potentially bring a civil action to recover damages or punitive damages, including costs, court costs, and attorney fees.