CHAPTER 350

H.P. 902 - L.D. 1228

An Act To Address Concerns Regarding the Breeding and Sale

of Certain Small Mammals

Emergency preamble. Whereas, Acts of the Legislature do not become effective until 90 days after adjournment unless enacted as emergencies; and

Whereas, significant health and animal welfare concerns exist regarding the breeding and sale of small mammals as pets; and

Whereas, certain breeders and sellers of certain small mammals are not currently regulated at either the state or federal level; and

Whereas, children are often in contact with these animals in both home and school settings; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of

Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore,

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows: