Committee reports pet‑store information bill out with due‑pass recommendation amid cost concerns

The House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee on Feb. 21 voted to report House Bill 19‑76 out of committee with a due‑pass recommendation. The bill, previously heard by the committee, would require pet stores to provide a pamphlet prepared by the Washington Invasive Species Council covering rehoming options and the risks of invasive species.

Committee staff explained there were no amendments on the executive list. The vice chair moved to report the bill out with a due‑pass recommendation; the motion carried on roll call with a tally recorded in committee as 7 ayes and 4 nays. The chair encouraged a yes vote, while Representative Schmidt voiced a preference for a cost‑saving approach such as including a QR code on a card rather than requiring retailers to distribute more printed material. He said he intended to vote no at that moment but would support working on an amendment to achieve an efficient approach.

Clerk roll‑call entries read statements for many members; the final tally announced by the clerk was 7 ayes, 4 nays, 0 excused/absent. Committee members noted an additional amendment likely will be brought to refine implementation so the pamphlet fulfills consumer awareness goals without unduly burdening regulated retailers or state operational capacities.

The bill now proceeds with a due‑pass recommendation, with sponsors and staff indicating intent to continue technical work on amendments addressing distribution format and administrative burden.