After passage in the state Assembly, the Nevada Senate Natural Resources Committee is considering Assembly Bill 487 in a hearing on Tuesday, May 13. If enacted, this bill would ban pet stores from selling dogs and cats.
Nevada residents are encouraged to contact the committee using the information below. While the hearing is today, the committee is expected to vote on the measure on Thursday, May 15.
Note: The bill previously prohibited the sale or transfer of dogs or cats in public places, but that aspect has been removed after an amendment requested by AKC. AKC greatly appreciates this amendment, but remains opposed to the limits on pet choice and consumer protection.
Summary and Talking Points:
Assembly Bill 487 prohibits retail pet stores from selling, offering to sell, bartering, auctioning, or otherwise transferring ownership of any dog or cat. Violations of this prohibition are classified as misdemeanors, and courts may impose additional penalties, including prohibiting the sale of dogs or cats by the violator for up to one year. The bill allows retail pet stores to collaborate with animal shelters or rescue organizations for adoption purposes, provided no compensation is received for showcasing the animals. AKC is concerned this limits the opportunity for residents to purchase a pet from a licensed, regulated entity and removes consumer protection. Visit AKC’s Legislative Action Center for more talking points on this issue.
What You Can Do:
If you would like to include your comments for Assembly Bill 487 ahead of the May 13 hearing and May 15 vote, you can do so here. Next, on the webpage, click the “Opinions” box in the top right corner of the page to submit your comments.
Details of hearing:
3:30 PM, Tuesday, May 13, 2025
401 South Carson Street
Carson City, NV
Room 2144
To provide public comments remotely: Dial (888) 475-4499 on the date of the meeting. When prompted, provide Meeting ID 82299338019 and then press #. When prompted for a Participant ID, press #. Call (775) 684-1300 for assistance.
AKC Government Relations continues to monitor bills in Nevada impacting dog owners and will provide updates. For questions or more information, contact AKC GR at doglaw@akc.org.