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Committee advances bill banning sale of pets in public spaces after amendments
Summary
The House Business Affairs & Labor Committee heard hours of testimony on a bill to prohibit unlicensed sellers from offering pets for sale in public spaces, adopted two amendments clarifying local authority and exemptions for registered-breeder events, and moved the measure as amended to the committee of the whole.
Representative Armagas, sponsor of House Bill 11‑80, told the House Business Affairs & Labor Committee the bill would close a loophole that allows unlicensed out‑of‑state sellers to offer puppies and other pets for sale in public spaces such as parking lots and road shoulders.
The measure, focused on companion animals, would prohibit unregulated sales in public spaces and give law enforcement tools to intervene. Supporters said the change would protect animal welfare and consumers; opponents worried about incidental effects on hunting‑related working animals, auctions and sovereign‑nation sales.
The committee heard more than a dozen witnesses over several hours. Linda Hart, legislative director for the Colorado Federation of Dog Clubs and Owners, said reputable breeders vet buyers and sometimes transfer dogs at licensed shows but do not sell animals in pens at show sites; she said her group supported the bill with…
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