Mississippi is one of the few states that lead the nation in unwanted and homeless animal overpopulation. Passing a Bill (similar to the one that Louisiana just passed) that bans the roadside sale of dogs and cats will help keep our communities safe from disease such as Canine Parvovirus, Canine Distemper, Feline HIV and the Rabies virus. This ban is already in effect in many cities across our state but it needs to be statewide. It will prevent puppy mill owners from having an outlet for their illegal breeding facilities. MS taxpayers spend millions in animal control costs every year. It is time to stop the cycle of overpopulation in our state. This ban will force irresponsible pet owners to take their unwanted litters to shelters or rescues, where the animals will be vaccinated and spayed or neutered before being sent back out into the community - thereby preventing these animals from having litters of their own and contributing to the growing problem of overpopulation.