Bill > S2592

This bill aims to further regulate the sale of certain domestic animals, including cats, dogs, and rabbits, in the Commonwealth. The key provisions are: 1. Requiring that cats, dogs, and rabbits sold or gifted in the Commonwealth be accompanied by a health record and an official health certificate. 2. Prohibiting pet shops from purchasing animals from certain breeders or brokers that have had recent issues or violations related to the Animal Welfare Act. 3. Mandating that sellers (pet shops, animal rescue organizations, animal shelters, breeders, and brokers) maintain records to verify compliance with the regulations and post specific information about each animal. 4. Establishing a process for declaring a cat, dog, or rabbit "unfit for sale" and the remedies available to buyers in such cases. 5. Requiring that animals be microchipped and the microchip registered with the buyer's contact information prior to sale or adoption. 6. Imposing fines and penalties for violations of the new regulations, which would also constitute unfair or deceptive practices under the state's consumer protection laws. 7. Prohibiting the sale or adoption of animals from certain public locations, such as roadside stands or flea markets. The bill aims to enhance consumer protections and animal welfare standards in the sale of cats, dogs, and rabbits in the Commonwealth.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure (J)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S2592