ATLANTA () — A bill making it illegal to sell dogs, cats and rabbits on roadsides, parks and parking lots was signed into law on Friday.

Governor Brian Kemp has officially enacted House Bill 331 into law. Supporters of this legislation view it as a win in the fight against irresponsible pet breeding, puppy mills, and illegal pet sales.

According to the bill, the sale, exchange, or advertisement of dogs, cats, and domestic rabbits for commercial purposes is prohibited in locations such as roadsides, public rights of way, parkways, medians, public or commercial parking lots or sidewalks, parks, recreation areas, fairs, transient or seasonal flea markets, or similar transient or outdoor venues.

Laura Donahue, Senior Director of Advocacy and Network Partners at Best Friends Animal Society, stated, “Puppy mills often use roadsides and parking lots to sell their animals, hiding the often cruel and poor conditions in which these pets are bred. I’m very thankful to Governor Kemp for taking action to protect Georgia’s pets.”

Individuals who violate the law could face fines up to $100 for the first offense, $250 for the second and $500 for the third and subsequent offenses. Corporations would face a fine up to $1,000, between 200-500 hours of community service or both.

Additionally, each animal sold would represent a separate offense.

“I backed the roadside sales element because every Georgians’ pet deserves a safe and loving home,” a sponsor of the bill, Rep. Beth Camp (R) said. “By ending roadside and parking lot sales, we’re protecting our neighbors, our families, and our community’s most vulnerable animals.”

Read the full bill here: