Author: Casey Smith

Tensions flared in the Statehouse on Monday as lawmakers revived — and advanced — a bill to block cities and towns from banning the retail sale of dogs. It was a win for puppy breeders and a national pet store chain but ran counter to the wishes of animal welfare advocates and many local officials. A similar bill did not pass last year following the cry. Lawmakers said at the time they had too little time to address “too many issues” in the controversial law. Many of those who spoke about the previous proposal returned to testify Monday. For debate…