Committee OKs Puppy Mill Bill

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- State lawmakers have given preliminary approval to legislation that would license and regulate so-called puppy mills in Oklahoma.

The House Economic Development and Financial Services Committee voted 11-2 Tuesday to send the measure to the full House for debate and a vote.

The measure by Rep. Lee Denney, R-Cushing, would require animal breeders and dealers to obtain a state quality assurance license if they sell or transfer 25 or more animals a year.

It would also require licensed dealers to allow regular inspections by Department of Agriculture workers who would assure that kennels are clean and animals are not being mistreated.

Denney said the bill is the result of repeated incidents of animal cruelty attributed to breeders in the state. Opponents say it is unfair to responsible breeders.