The Massachusetts Senate is preparing to debate and vote on a major animal welfare bill that would ban the sale of puppies and kittens in commercial pet stores while expanding protections for pets across the state. The proposal, known as the PETS Act (S.3014), cleared the Senate Committee on Ways and Means and is scheduled for debate and a vote on March 19.

The legislation would ban Massachusetts pet shops from selling dogs or cats altogether, including animals sourced from puppy mills or backyard breeders. Stores could still partner with animal shelters or rescue groups to showcase adoptable animals. However, the animals would have to be adopted through the rescue organization rather than sold by the store.

Only six Massachusetts pet stores sell puppies.

The measure would allow animal control officers to issue civil citations when pets are kept in unsafe or unhealthy conditions, require companies to use non-animal testing methods for cosmetics and household products when valid alternatives exist, and prohibit state-aided public housing developments from banning pets outright or denying tenants the ability to keep dogs based solely on breed or size. The latter provision would not apply to Section 8 housing. Additionally, the animal testing piece would not apply to medical research.

Lawmakers Push Expanded Animal Protections

Supporters say the bill strengthens Massachusetts animal cruelty laws and modernizes animal welfare standards.

“We will continue to protect innocent animals from abusive treatment, whether it is from a hoarding situation where an owner simply lost control over a situation or a more direct and callous form of cruelty,” state Sen. Mark Montigny, D-New Bedford, said in a statement.

“Such callousness warrants much tougher penalties, including jail time,” Montigny added. “The Senate continues to lead on matters of animal welfare in Massachusetts, and I look forward to our upcoming debate.”

Advocates argue the legislation is necessary because thousands of animals nationwide are still the victims of painful testing procedures and unsafe living conditions.

Why the PETS Act Matters in Massachusetts

Massachusetts currently has only one felony animal cruelty statute, according to lawmakers backing the legislation.

Supporters say the bill would allow earlier intervention when animals are kept in unhealthy environments before the situation escalates to criminal cruelty.

The proposal would also align Massachusetts with several other states that have restricted retail pet sales and limited animal testing for consumer products.

If approved by the Senate, the bill would move forward in the legislative process later this year.

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FAQ: Massachusetts PETS Act

What is the Massachusetts PETS Act?

The PETS Act is a legislative package that bans pet stores from selling puppies and kittens while expanding animal welfare protections. It also includes provisions addressing animal testing, housing access for pet owners, and enforcement of animal cruelty laws.

When will the Massachusetts Senate vote on the PETS Act?

The Senate will debate and vote on the proposal on March 19. Lawmakers must file amendments by March 16 before the debate begins.

Does the PETS Act ban animal testing in Massachusetts?

The bill restricts animal testing for cosmetics and household products when alternatives exist. It does not apply to medical research.

How would the bill affect pet stores in Massachusetts?

Pet shops would no longer be allowed to sell dogs or cats. However, stores could partner with animal shelters or rescues to host adoptable animals.

Could public housing residents keep pets under the bill?

Yes. The legislation would prevent state-aided public housing facilities from banning pets entirely or discriminating based solely on breed or size.