Companion Animal Board establishment, duties transfer, rulemaking authorization, and appropriation

SF 2415 establishes the Companion Animal Board to promote the welfare of cats, dogs, and other nonagricultural pets (like rabbits, ferrets, and small reptiles) in Minnesota. The board, composed of 13 appointed members representing veterinarians, local communities, animal shelters/rescues, breeders, and mental health professionals, will administer related laws and issue rules. It transfers duties from other entities to this new board and authorizes funding for its operations, while explicitly excluding agricultural animals, wildlife, and veterinary medicine oversight. The bill directly affects pet owners, animal shelters, rescues, and breeders by creating a dedicated state body for companion animal welfare.