The bill, H.B. No. 3458, introduces new regulations regarding the sale of dogs and cats by pet stores in Texas. It establishes Chapter 206 in the Business & Commerce Code, which prohibits pet stores from selling dogs or cats, with specific exceptions for showcasing animals from certain entities, such as animal control agencies and nonprofit organizations dedicated to finding homes for homeless pets. The bill defines a "pet store" and outlines the conditions under which these entities can showcase animals, including restrictions on breeding and compensation for the animals.

Additionally, the bill imposes civil penalties for violations, allowing the attorney general to seek penalties of up to $500 per day for each dog or cat sold or offered for sale in violation of the new regulations. 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 laws.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: ()