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AZ SB1789
Bill
Status
2/5/2026
Primary Sponsor
Lauren Kuby
Click for details
AI Summary
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Removes the "knowing" standard for pet store violations, making pet stores and pet dealers strictly liable for obtaining dogs or cats from breeders who violate federal animal welfare regulations.
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Requires pet stores and pet dealers to submit compliance records, including USDA inspection reports, to the Arizona Department of Agriculture rather than simply maintaining them for two years.
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Authorizes any person in Arizona to seek injunctive relief in court against pet stores or pet dealers violating the sourcing restrictions.
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Eliminates the good faith defense that previously protected pet stores conducting USDA database searches when sourcing animals from breeders.
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Maintains escalating civil penalties ($1,000 for first violation, $2,500 for second, $5,000 for third) and allows courts to prohibit pet dealers from selling non-shelter animals for up to three years after a third violation within five years.
Legislative Description
Pet stores; pet dealers
Last Action
Senate read second time
2/9/2026