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 combat the unethical practices associated with puppy and kitten mills by closing off a sales avenue for these animals. Pet shops are allowed to collaborate with animal rescue organizations to showcase animals available for adoption, provided no financial transactions occur between the parties.

Additionally, the bill establishes penalties for breeders or brokers who knowingly sell animals deemed unfit for purchase, defining "unfit" as having significant health issues that were present before sale. A fine of $500 is imposed for each violation of the prohibition against selling cats, dogs, or rabbits in pet shops. The bill clarifies that it does not alter existing consumer rights or the regulations governing pet dealers that are not classified as pet shops, ensuring that other laws and regulations remain in effect. It also allows municipalities to enforce additional regulations on pet sales and related practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 4:19-15.8