Lesniak Backs Puppy Mill Ban Vetoed By Christie 

Union, NJ – Not to be deterred a second time, former Senator Lesniak has called upon his former colleagues to support The Humane Pet Store Bill (S2511/A4051) that will prohibit the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in commercial stores sponsored by New Jersey State Senators Brian Stack and Raj Mukherji, and Assemblywomen Shama A. Haider and Luanne M. Peterpaul. Governor Christie vetoed similar legislation sponsored by Senator Lesniak in 2017.

“Puppy mills, or commercially raised animals, are famously cruel to the animals that reside in them. They are kept in cramped cages, surrounded by hundreds of other animals with injuries, fleas, lice, and excessive feces leading to malnourished, abused animals with some ending up dead,” said Lesniak.

S2511/A4051 has strong support from animal welfare organizations, humane pet stores, veterinarians, and county residents as it transitions pet stores to a more humane business model by encouraging purchases from shelters, rescues, and responsible breeders.  It’s time for breeding dogs, cats, and rabbits commercially to be disbanded.

“The second time’s a charm to end this ongoing cruelty,” Lesniak predicted.

The Lesniak Institute is developing the next generation of American leaders by teaching the principles of effective advocacy, offering first-hand experience through its causes, and partnering with grassroots organizations. The Institute is named for Senator Raymond J. Lesniak who authored and sponsored hundreds of laws during his 40 years in the New Jersey Legislature to advance human rights and the quality of life for millions. • LesniakInstitute.org

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