Hearing held on bill to ban selling dogs, cats and rabbits in parking lots

The committee heard testimony on a measure that would prohibit selling dogs, cats and rabbits in parking lots, at roadside locations or pop-up markets unless the seller holds a breeder license from the Georgia Department of Agriculture.

Representative Kemp presented the bill (LC443007 / HB331) and said it targets commercial sellers who bring animals into the state and sell them in parking lots with little medical history or ability for buyers to locate sellers for follow-up. "There are nefarious people who bring animals into our state…They oftentimes are involved in multiple illegal activities," Kemp said, arguing the measure would protect consumers and animals.

The bill carves out multiple exceptions, including private sales at a person's home, sales at veterinary clinics, sales at law-enforcement parking lots, registered breeders with Department of Agriculture licensure, sanctioned breed-show events, 4-H events and agricultural exhibitions. Representative Gunner asked whether typical backyard breeding and occasional sales would be affected; the sponsor said routine sales at a home or veterinarian would not be impacted.

Members discussed penalty amounts and enforcement. Representative Camp noted the Department of Agriculture had suggested changes to the penalty language. Committee members indicated interest in further work and the bill was taken as a hearing only for this meeting; no formal vote was recorded.

Supporters included Farm Bureau and several agribusiness groups who emphasized consumer safety and regulation of commercial sellers; members asked staff to consider Department of Agriculture input on penalties and wording.