USDA would enforce animal welfare rules through inspections and penalties

USDA would require inspectors to seize covered animals or humanely put them down. Research facilities' animals would qualify only when no longer needed for the research, test, or experiment for which they were used. Animals must suffer physical or psychological harm caused by a welfare violation. Once notified of intended seizure, dealers, exhibitors, handlers, and carriers could not destroy that animal. Until seizure is complete, destroying other animals would require USDA's written consent. Seizure would occur promptly upon discovery during an inspection or investigation.

USDA would inspect covered facilities, record violations, and share violation records with animal control or law enforcement officials. Annual inspections would cover regulated dealers, exhibitors, and research facilities. Inspectors would document any observed failure to follow the Animal Welfare Act or its rules. Records would go to state or local officials with authority in the area. Necessary follow-up inspections would continue until violations are corrected. Records would be shared within 24 hours of the inspection or investigation.

USDA could impose fines and would order violators to stop the violation. The rules would cover regulated animal businesses, auction operators, and research facilities. USDA would consider business size, seriousness, good faith, and past violations. Fines could not be reduced by 10 percent or more. Affected parties would receive notice and an opportunity to be heard before fines or stop orders, and could appeal to a federal appeals court.