The State Duma of the Russian Federation, in the first reading, endorsed a draft law empowering regions to set their own procedures for handling stray animals. This change would allow local authorities to tailor solutions to their specific demographic and environmental conditions, reflecting a shift toward regional autonomy in animal welfare policy.
During the session, 350 deputies participated from a total of 450. Of these, 310 backed the legislative initiative, nine abstained, and 31 spoke against it. The proposal gained the support of 68.9 percent of those present at the first reading, signaling a broad, though not unanimous, consensus among lawmakers on this approach to stray animal management.
The project updates the law on responsible treatment of animals and amendments to several other pieces of Russian legislation. It was authored by a group of 16 State Duma deputies representing the United Russia party as well as the A Just Russia – For Truth, New People, and Liberal Democratic Party factions. The measure has drawn governmental backing, indicating alignment with executive expectations for reform in animal welfare governance.
Alexander Spiridonov, a former deputy from United Russia, argued for penalties aimed at pet owners who allow their animals to roam unsupervised. The proposal also contemplates requiring breeders to obtain a special license to operate, a provision intended to strengthen oversight of breeding practices. Reports indicate that modifications to the bill could be brought before the legislature as early as May, potentially altering enforcement norms and administrative processes related to pet ownership and animal care across the country.