Another Potential Animal Victory: Council Votes To Ban Roadside Animal Purchases
An ordinance augmenting SB 917, the recently passed law which prohibits the roadside sale of animals plus increases the penalties for animal neglect, received unanimous support today. Council President Pro Tempore Jan Perry champions the effort, aiming to prohibit the purchase of animals on public sidewalks or streets in the City of L.A.
"The sale of live animals on city sidewalks and streets poses a real risk to these vulnerable animals and the public at large. Many of these animals are not vaccinated, have been taken from their mothers too soon, or may even carry dangerous bacteria like salmonella," said Perry. "With the adoption of this ordinance, we are closing a loophole in our existing codes, making it illegal to buy and sell animals in this inhumane manner. By doing so, we hope to increase public awareness and personal responsibility."
The new ordinance considers purchasing, offering to purchase, bartering, or receiving without cost live animals on public streets and sidewalks illegal. Violators would be subject to a citation plus a misdemeanor charge. Penalties include fines of $250 for the first violation, $500 for the second and $1,000 for the third. Enforcement by any Los Angeles law enforcement officer is also permitted via the ordinance.
Since only eleven members attended today's meeting, the ordinance will return for a final vote on Wednesday, August 10.
If passed, the ordinance will become effective 30 days after signed by the mayor.
