Albany, New York - Governor Kathy Hochul signed a new law that will prohibit New York State pet stores from selling dogs, cats, and rabbits that have come from breeders.

The law that was signed on Thursday looks to crack down on puppy mills and other commercial breeding centers known to keep animals under unsanitary, abusive, and neglectful conditions.

"I'm proud to sign this legislation, which will make meaningful steps to cut down on harsh treatment and protect the welfare of animals across the state," Hochul said, per the New York Post.

Sen. Michael Gianaris and Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal sponsored the law. The ban was passed with significant bipartisan support.

Donald Trump Trump's dictator fixation revealed in new memoir by ex-German chancellor Merkel

"This law will save countless animals from abuse at the hands of horrid puppy mills, and I'm thrilled it is now enacted," Gianaris said, per The New York Times.

Pet store owners have been outspoken in their criticisms of the bill, arguing that the ban would hurt their businesses. However, the new law will allow pet stores to rent their space to animal shelters for adoption, which is a new revision of the original proposal.

New York now joins several other states, including California and Illinois, with similar bans on commercial breeders.

The new law will go in effect on December 15, 2024.