SENATE BILL REPORT
SHB 1424
As of March 22, 2021
Title: An act relating to consumer protection with respect to the sale of dogs and cats.
Brief Description: Concerning consumer protection with respect to the sale of dogs and cats.
Sponsors: House Committee on Consumer Protection & Business (originally sponsored by Representatives Walen, Ybarra, Springer, Simmons, Ramel and Berg).
Brief History: Passed House: 3/7/21, 68-30.
Committee Activity: Business, Financial Services & Trade: 3/23/21.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Prohibits a retail pet store from selling a cat.
  • Prohibits a retail pet store from selling or offering to sell a dog unless the pet store sold or offered for sale any dog prior to the effective date of the act.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON BUSINESS, FINANCIAL SERVICES & TRADE
Staff: Kellee Gunn (786-7429)
Background:

There are many local, state, and federal laws governing buying, selling, and keeping animals.  Recently enacted state laws include those that limit leasing a dog or cat, revise or establish certain penalties for animal cruelty, clarify what animal cruelty includes, and limit dog breeding practices.

 

At the federal level, several laws further govern the rights of animals.  Most relevant to buying and selling animals is the Animal Welfare Act (act) which was enacted in 1966, and most recently amended in 2013.  The act protects animals kept in zoos, laboratories, and those commercially bred and sold.  The United States Department of Agriculture enforces the act and regulates household pets.

 

On the local level, some counties and cities impose regulations on the sale of animals intended as pets, such as imposing licensing requirements on retail pet stores and prohibiting the sale of animals in public places.
Summary of Bill:

A retail pet store may not sell or offer to sell any cat.  A retail pet store may not sell or offer to sell a dog unless the retail pet store sold or offered to sell any dog prior to the effective date of this legislation.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.