A bill that would allow towns to ban pet stores from selling dogs, cats, and rabbits has advanced in the state legislature.

Supporters of the bill argue that the animals sold in pet stores often come from overcrowded and inhumane "puppy mills."

However, pet store owners oppose the bill, stating that their suppliers are licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and that bans would drive sales to unregulated internet sellers.