April 24, 2025

AUSTIN, TX – Yesterday, April 23, the Ethical Pet Sales Bill (HB 3458) passed out of the House Committee on Trade, Workforce & Economic Development on a vote of 10-1. A legislative priority for the Texas Humane Legislation Network (THLN), this bill would stop the puppy mill pipeline into Texas to protect consumers and animals alike.

“We are grateful to Representative Jared Patterson for his continued leadership on the Ethical Pet Sales Bill, and to Chair Angie Chen Button and the Committee for advancing this commonsense legislation,” said Shelby Bobosky, Executive Director of THLN. “These lawmakers have taken a significant step toward halting the puppy mill pipeline into Texas and protecting consumers from the heartbreaking consequences of buying sick animals from retail pet stores. HB 3458 promotes transparency and responsible business practices, upholds humane standards, and creates new opportunities for Texas shelters and rescues. We look forward to seeing this bill continue to progress and ultimately become law.”

Click here for a previous release recapping when the bill was heard in the House Trade, Workforce, Economic Development Committee on Wednesday, April 9, 2025.

Additional notes
Dean Senator Judith Zaffirini (D-Laredo) has filed Senate Bill 1652, the companion bill in the Senate. It is awaiting a hearing.

For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact Cara Gustafson at 561-797-8267 or [email protected]. 

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