This bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes to prohibit pet shops from selling cats and dogs, while allowing them to provide space for nonprofit organizations to offer animals for adoption. Key definitions are introduced, including "pet shop," which is defined as a pet dealer operating a physical retail store. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of pet dealers regarding animal disclosures, including the requirement to provide detailed information about the animal's health and history, as well as inspection reports from breeders.
Additionally, the bill establishes civil penalties for pet dealers who fail to comply with these regulations, including fines of up to $1,000 per violation. It includes provisions for pet shops that have been in operation for at least one year prior to the bill's effective date, allowing them to continue selling animals under specific conditions. The effective date for all provisions in the bill is set for August 1, 2026, and it includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the bill is found unconstitutional, the remaining sections will still be enforceable.
Statutes affected: Introduction: 325F.79, 325F.791, 325F.792