Overview

• Governor Gavin Newsom on Oct. 9 signed AB 506, AB 519, SB 312 and AB 867 to curb the commercial puppy mill pipeline and strengthen cat protections.
• AB 506 requires sellers to disclose each pet’s origin and health information and voids contracts with non‑refundable deposits; Newsom’s office says up to 80% of sponsored pet ads may be fake.
• AB 519 bars third‑party pet brokers, including online resellers, from selling cats, puppies or rabbits bred by others for profit in California.
• SB 312 mandates that dog importers file electronic health certificates with the California Department of Food & Agriculture within 10 days of shipment, with records available on request.
• AB 867 prohibits declawing of cats unless medically necessary, and the package follows a Los Angeles Times investigation with key bills sponsored by San Diego Humane Society; the laws take effect Jan. 1, 2026.