Bill > H3212

This bill aims to protect pets in the Commonwealth by establishing the following key provisions: 1. Prohibits the sale of puppies and kittens under 8 weeks old, with a $100 fine per violation. 2. Requires pet shops to provide consumers with a warranty for puppies, including options for treatment, reimbursement, or a full refund if the puppy is declared "unfit for purchase" due to a congenital or hereditary defect or a disease/condition present prior to or at the time of sale. 3. Restricts pet shops from purchasing dogs or cats from certain breeders, including those with recent USDA license suspensions, direct violations of the Animal Welfare Act, or multiple non-administrative violations. 4. Prohibits the offer for sale or adoption of dogs and cats from roadside locations, public property, or flea markets, with exceptions for previously arranged transactions. 5. Mandates that pet shops and animal rescue groups microchip and register all dogs and cats prior to releasing them to purchasers or adopters. 6. Requires animal shelters, control agencies, and rescue organizations to maintain detailed records on the intake, disposition, and euthanasia of animals, and submit quarterly and annual reports to the Department of Agricultural Resources. 7. Allows municipalities and regional governments to enact and enforce ordinances to implement the provisions of this bill.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/H3212