TITLE 2. AGRICULTURE

BOARD OF AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMER SERVICES

Notice of Intended Regulatory Action

Notice is hereby given in accordance with § 2.2-4007.01 of the Code of Virginia that the Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services intends to consider amending 2VAC5-105, Regulations Pertaining to Pet Shops Selling Dogs or Cats. The purpose of the proposed action is to fulfill the requirements of Chapter 610 of the 2025 Acts of Assembly by developing civil penalties to be issued as a remedy for violations of the regulations related to inspecting pet shops that sell dogs or cats. Currently, the regulation prescribes probationary periods and revocation of registration for pet shops with egregious or repeat violations; the proposed amendments would add civil penalties to these. The board will also develop a guidance document in the form of a civil penalty matrix.

The agency intends to hold a public hearing on the proposed action after publication in the Virginia Register.

Statutory Authority: § 3.2-6501.1 of the Code of Virginia.

Public Comment Deadline: June 17, 2026.

Agency Contact: Dr. Carolynn Bissett, Program Manager, Office of Veterinary Services, Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23218, telephone (804) 786-2483, fax (804) 371-2380, TDD (800) 828-1120, or email carolynn.bissett@vdacs.virginia.gov.