Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits declawing cats statewide in California.

Highlights:

• Prohibits declawing cats statewide in California unless the individual is licensed as a veterinarian according to the act and the veterinarian is declawing for a therapeutic purpose, as defined (Sec. 1-2).

• Requires a veterinarian, if they determine declawing is necessary for a therapeutic purpose, to file a written statement with the board that includes, among other information, the purpose for performing the procedure, and would require the veterinarian to also provide a copy of the statement to the owner (Sec. 1-2).

• Specifies that a violation of these provisions is a crime under the act, and this bill would impose a state-mandated local program (Sec. 1-2).

• Specifies that a veterinarian’s violation of the bill’s provisions shall be subject to discipline by the board (Sec. 1-2).

• Specifies that the California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state (Sec. 1-2).

• Specifies that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason (Sec. 1-2).

• Specifies that the provisions of this bill shall take effect immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text