This bill was filed by breeders As far as we can tell, these bills were filed a the request of the Massachusetts Federation of Dog Clubs and Responsible Owners (MassFed) and/or some of their members. Their website can be found at www.massfeddogs.org. To Amend Chapter 129 of the General Laws by inserting the following: Section 39E: Animal Shelters and Rescue (rehoming) Organizations SECTION 1. Definitions: “Shelter” – Any 501 (c)3 organization or other IRS not for profit status organization that finds homes for unowned animals. “Rescue Organization” – A 501 (c)3 organization or other IRS not for profit status organization other than a shelter as defined in this act that arranges for transfer of unowned dogs and cats to temporary or permanent homes in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. “Department” – Department of Agricultural Resources SECTION 2: The Department may promulgate rules and regulations for the operation of shelter and rescue organizations operating or conducting business in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts regarding the transfer of ownership of domestic animals, including but not limited to their importation, transportation, housing and medical treatment.