AUGUSTA, Maine - Lawmakers have sent a bill to Gov. Paul LePage's desk that would prohibit new pet shops in Maine from selling dogs and cats born in out-of-state breeding operations.
The Republican-controlled Senate voted 21-14 to give the bill final approval on Thursday.
Under the bill, new pet shops would only be able to sell dogs and cats that come from an animal shelter, humane society or animal rescue organization. The five existing pet shops in Maine could continue buying and selling animals from commercial breeding facilities that meet certain federal guidelines.
Democratic Rep. Kim Monaghan's bill faces a likely veto from LePage, who has pledged to veto all bills introduced by Democrats.
The Humane Society of the United States says Maine would be the fourth state to pass such a law.