Bill > AB506

This bill introduces new regulations for the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in California, focusing on transparency and consumer protection. Starting January 1, 2026, sellers (including pet dealers and businesses) will be required to provide purchasers with a detailed written notice disclosing the original source of the animal, including the breeder's information, state of birth, and USDA license number if applicable. The bill mandates that sellers provide a comprehensive medical record, including vaccination history, worming treatments, and any veterinary care received. Critically, the bill prohibits contracts that include nonrefundable deposits for pet sales, rendering such contracts void as against public policy. If a contract is found to be void, sellers must refund the purchaser within 30 days. The legislation empowers purchasers to sue sellers for violations, with potential recovery of exchanged money, injunctive relief, and attorney's fees. Additionally, public prosecutors can enforce these provisions. The bill explicitly excludes governmental agencies, service animals, and public animal control agencies or shelters from these requirements, ensuring focused protection for consumer pet purchases while maintaining exceptions for specialized animal transfers.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Justice

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB506