New Texas legislation takes aim at puppy mills, pet store sales

Legislation banning the sale of puppies and kittens at most retail establishments in Texas has sparked a debate between animal rights advocates and some pet store operators.

The twin pieces of legislation, House Bill 3458 by North Texas Republican state Rep. Jared Patterson and Senate Bill 1652 by South Texas Democratic Sen. Judith Zaffirini, are competing for attention with scores of other measures awaiting action before the 2025 legislative session ends in five weeks.

But both lawmakers say their legislation would curb animal abuse by making it more difficult for so-called puppy mill and kitten mill breeders to operate in the state.

"Puppy mills generally are known to promote profit over animal welfare," Zaffirini told the Senate Business and Commerce Committee on Thursday. "With many of these pets suffering from health problems, this can lead consumers with unexpected high veterinary costs and untold lost income."

The panel took no action on her bill. But last week, the House Workforce and Economic Development Committee voted 10-1 to send Patterson's bill to the full chamber for consideration.

https://www.expressnews.com/news/texas/article/texas-puppy-mill-pet-store-sales-20306678.php