Senate Bill No. 1652 introduces new regulations regarding the sale of dogs and cats by pet stores in Texas. The bill establishes Chapter 206 in the Business & Commerce Code, which prohibits pet stores from selling dogs or cats. Instead, pet stores may provide space for certain entities, such as animal control agencies and nonprofit organizations, to showcase animals for adoption. These entities must adhere to specific criteria, including not breeding animals or obtaining them for compensation. Additionally, pet stores are not allowed to have ownership interests in the showcased animals or receive fees for providing the space.

The bill also imposes civil penalties for violations, with pet stores liable for up to $500 per day for each dog or cat sold or offered for sale in violation of the prohibition. The attorney general is authorized to take legal action to collect these penalties or seek injunctions against violators. The law will apply only to dogs and cats obtained by pet stores on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025, while those obtained prior will be governed by the previous regulations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: ()