SACRAMENTO–On National Puppy Mill Awareness Day today, Governor Gavin Newsom has signed two bills to protect animal welfare in California.
AB 2152 by Assemblymember Todd Gloria (D-San Diego) officially ends the retail sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in California by closing a loophole in current law, while still allowing pet stores to partner with shelters and rescue organizations to showcase animals for adoption.
The legislation builds on California’s landmark law enacted in 2017 banning the sale of dogs, cats and rabbits in pet stores, unless supplied by shelters or rescue organizations.
Newsom also signed SB 573 by Senator Ling Ling Chang (R-Diamond Bar) requiring shelters and animal control agencies to microchip all dogs and cats with current information before releasing them to adoptive owners or an owner seeking to reclaim them.
“In California, we are putting an end to the cruel puppy mill industry for good,” said Governor Newsom. “I am proud to sign this legislation to advance California’s nation-leading animal welfare protections and help more pets join loving families.”
The 2020-21 State Budget allocates up to $5 million one-time General Fund for a University of California, Davis grant program to give the state’s animal shelters the training and resources they need to work toward the state’s no-kill goal.
