Bill > S651

This bill proposes to ban the retail sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in pet shops regulated under 330 CMR 12.00, with some important exceptions. Pet shops would be prohibited from selling these animals, but they could still offer space to animal rescue or shelter organizations to showcase animals for adoption, as long as the pet shop does not have an ownership interest in the animals. Existing pet shops that were already selling dogs, cats, or rabbits before the effective date can continue to do so, provided they maintain their original license, ownership, location, and have documented sales of the specific type of animal for at least one year prior to the act's implementation. Violations of this ban would result in escalating civil penalties: $1,000 for the first offense, $2,500 for the second offense, and $5,000 for third and subsequent offenses, with potential suspension or revocation of the pet shop's license. Each advertisement, offer, or sale of an animal in violation would be considered a separate offense. The bill also explicitly preserves local governments' authority to further regulate or prohibit animal sales and is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S651