The proposed bill aims to amend Minnesota Statutes to prohibit pet shops from selling cats and dogs, thereby promoting animal welfare and encouraging adoption. Key provisions include the definition of a "pet shop" and the establishment of regulations regarding the sale and adoption of animals. Pet shops will be allowed to provide space for nonprofit organizations to facilitate animal adoptions, but they cannot have any ownership interest in the animals or charge fees for this service. Additionally, pet shops that have been in operation for at least one year prior to the bill's effective date may continue selling animals, provided they source them from licensed breeders and disclose the breeder's license number.

The bill also introduces new disclosure requirements for pet dealers, including the necessity to provide detailed information about the animals sold, such as their health history and breeder inspection reports. Violations of these regulations, including the prohibition on selling cats and dogs, will result in civil penalties of up to $1,000 per violation. The effective date for these changes is set for August 1, 2026, applying to actions committed on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 325F.79, 325F.791, 325F.792
1st Engrossment: 325F.79, 325F.791, 325F.792
2nd Engrossment: 325F.79, 325F.791, 325F.792