It seems by all appearances Maine was poised to make history in the fight against puppy mills when L.D. 335, a bill that would’ve prohibited new pet stores from selling puppies from commercial breeders and, instead, allow them to only offer dogs from shelters and rescue groups for adoption, had passed the Maine legislature on June 9th. All that was needed was the signature of Governor Paul LePage.
Sadly, Governor LePage vetoed this critical piece of legislation this week.
L.D. 335 would’ve also prohibited existing pet stores from selling dogs sourced from breeders who fail to meet the most basic care standards required by federal law.
No U.S. state has enacted such a law as this even though over 80 local governments have passed ordinances prohibiting the sale of commercially bred dogs and cats in pet stores.
There’s still an outside chance this veto could be overridden with the help of Maine residents. For those living in the “Pine Tree State”, call your state senator and representative in Augusta and urge them to push for an override vote!
Let your voices be heard and tell your state senator and representative that the veto of this bill is unacceptable.
Have a story, please email me at tevangelistaepp@yahoo. Like my tv page at https://www.facebook.com/ACloseUpLookAtAnimalWelfareIssues.
Mary says
What’s wrong with our politicians??
Tessa says
how could this governor veto this bill that would make life better for dogs and puppies? this is why so many people don’t trust our elected officials.they have a chance to do good for animals And they don’t. we have the power to vote them out!