Gov. Ron DeSantis signed two bills aimed at strengthening animal welfare protections and consumer safeguards for pet adoptions during a press conference at the Big Dog Ranch Rescue in Loxahatchee this week.
“Florida has become a leader in protecting animals and holding accountable those who harm them. Today, we built on that record with new legislation to strengthen penalties for animal abuse and improve consumer protections for pet owners,” DeSantis said in a statement.
House Bill 559 (Animal Welfare)
The bill establishes new felony offenses for adults who cause or encourage children to participate in aggravated animal cruelty, animal fighting, or sexual abuse involving animals. HB 559 also boosts penalties for animal fighting and baiting offenses.
In addition, the legislation mandates juveniles convicted of animal cruelty offenses to undergo psychological evaluation and treatment. The bill also broadens Florida’s animal abuse offender database managed by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
Reps. Linda Chaney (R-St. Pete Beach) and Johanna López (D-Orlando) sponsored the bill in the House. Sen. Kristen Arrington (D-Kissimmee) sponsored an identical bill in the Senate.
HB 559 will go into effect on Oct. 1, 2026.
Senate Bill 1004 (Domestic Animals)
The bill requires pet dealers to share financing terms before a sale is completed. SB 1004 also gives prospective pet buyers the option to terminate financial agreements without penalty if the pet is found to be unfit due to illness or disease.
In addition, the legislation directs pet owners to provide medical records showing examinations, medications, and treatments given to the pet.
Sen. Don Gaetz (R-Pensacola) sponsored the bill in the Senate. Rep. Meg Weinberger (R-Palm Beach Gardens) sponsored an identical bill in the House.
SB 1004 will go into effect on July 1, 2026.
"In Florida, anyone who mistreats or exploits animals—or tries to defraud those who care about them—will be held accountable," DeSantis added.
