Bill > HB1818

This bill amends the Texas Business & Commerce Code by adding Chapter 205, which regulates the sale of dogs and cats by pet stores. The key provisions are: 1. Pet stores in counties with a population of 200,000 or more can only sell dogs and cats obtained from animal control agencies, animal shelters, animal rescue organizations, or qualified breeders. 2. To be considered a "qualified breeder," a person must either hold a valid license as a dog or cat breeder in Texas or, if located out of state, meet certain standards and licensing requirements. 3. Pet stores must maintain records documenting the source of each dog and cat sold and make these records available for inspection. 4. Pet stores must publicly post the source of each dog and cat available for sale. 5. Pet stores that violate the law may be subject to a civil penalty of up to $500 per dog or cat sold in violation.