NORTH ATTLEBORO, Mass. (WPRI) — Legislation introduced at the Massachusetts State House is aiming to ban the sale of dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs in pet stores. The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA) supports the bills. According to the nonprofit, pet stores lack transparency and frequently get animals from places with inhumane conditions. "The federal laws relating to these commercial breeding facilities, they're very very weak, and they often go unenforced," MSPCA Director of Advocacy Kara Holmquist told 12 News. ALSO READ: New law bans cat declawing in Massachusetts There are also concerns that many animals bought in pet stores end up in shelters. "This creates a problem, not just for nonprofit animal groups, but many municipalities too," Holmquist explained. "It becomes a burden for animal control facilities that intake stray animals or surrendered animals." Following the pandemic, the MSPCA saw an uptick in the surrenders of guinea pigs in particular. "We are having an overpopulation of guinea pigs. Their length of stay in animal shelters across Massachusetts is much longer than it is for other animals," Holmquist noted. "There are a lot of animals, there's no need to purchase these animals from a pet shop. Shelters and rescues across Massachusetts have guinea pigs available for adoption." If the bills were to become law, the pets would still be available for adoption or purchase through shelters, rescues and responsible breeders. MORE: MSPCA rehabilitating severely emaciated horse State Rep. Adam Scanlon of North Attleboro introduced the legislation and hopes to get it over the finish line this year. "I think that the great thing about this bill is that it's bipartisan. Whether you're a Democrat, a Republican or an independent, chances are you've encountered a dog or cat in your life," Scanlon said. "They all bring us joy in many different ways ... we're going to do everything we can to ensure that our animals are safe." 12 News reached out to several area pet stores that sell live animals for their reaction to the legislation, but we have not heard back. Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media:                     Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW ...read more read less