This bill prohibits pet shops from selling cats, dogs, or rabbits and repeals the existing Pet Purchase Protection Act. The legislation emphasizes the importance of adopting homeless animals from shelters and rescue organizations, asserting that the sale of these animals in pet shops is unnecessary given the availability of adoptable pets. It also aims to protect consumers by defining "unfit for purchase" and establishing penalties for breeders or brokers who knowingly sell unhealthy animals. Specifically, the bill states that if an animal dies within 14 days of sale, it is presumed to be unfit for purchase.

Additionally, the bill allows pet shops to collaborate with animal rescue organizations, shelters, or pounds to showcase animals available for adoption, provided no financial transactions occur between the parties. It also clarifies that existing laws regarding pet dealers not classified as pet shops remain unchanged, and municipalities retain the authority to impose further regulations on pet shops and animal sales. The bill includes a $500 fine for violations of the prohibition on sales by pet shops and outlines the licensing requirements for pet shops, ensuring they do not sell cats, dogs, or rabbits.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 4:19-15.8