An Act banning the retail sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in new pet shops
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill prohibits the retail sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in newly established pet shops within Massachusetts. The goal is to reduce the number of animals sourced from breeders and increase animal welfare. It focuses specifically on new pet shops, not existing ones, and aims to shift the market towards adoption and rescue organizations. The bill was referred to the Environment and Natural Resources committee.
Key provisions
- Prohibits the retail sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in new pet shops.
- Applies to Massachusetts.
- Does not affect existing pet shops.
- Aims to promote animal welfare by reducing reliance on breeders.
- The bill was accompanied by a draft, S2720.
- Similar legislation, S.650, was also introduced.
- The bill was heard on 10/21/2025.
Who is affected
- Pet shop owners and operators
- Potential customers of new pet shops
- Animal breeders
- Animal rescue organizations
- Massachusetts residents
Notable changes
- Specifically targets new pet shops, leaving existing businesses unaffected.
- Addresses the sourcing of animals from breeders.
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
30 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
Bradley H. Jones Jr.
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