ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — Two Democratic state lawmakers from New York City are pushing to prohibit pet stores from selling dogs, cats and rabbits from large commercial breeders.
The bill sponsored by Sen. Michael Gianaris of Queens and Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal of Manhattan would require pet retailers to obtain their animals from licensed rescue shelters or human societies.
The rescue organization would retain ownership of the animal if it isn't adopted.
The sponsors say the legislation would help find homes for rescue animals while discouraging breeding facilities linked to animal mistreatment.
Similar legislation failed to get a vote last year, but supporters say they're more optimistic now that Democrats control both chambers of the New York state Legislature.
