Companion Animal Board established, and money appropriated.

HF 2490 establishes the Companion Animal Board in Minnesota to promote the welfare of cats, dogs, and other nonagricultural pets (including rabbits, guinea pigs, and small reptiles). The board, composed of 13 appointed members representing veterinarians, communities, animal shelters/rescues, breeders, and human welfare professionals, will administer policies related to companion animals while excluding agricultural animals, wildlife, and veterinary practice. The bill appropriates funding for the board's operations and requires it to issue reports, though it does not alter existing laws governing veterinary medicine or animal health. This is a procedural bill creating a new state board with defined scope and funding.