The Democratic Party of Colorado has passed a law that prohibits pet stores from selling dogs and cats outright, ending retail sales across the state. The law, signed by Democratic Gov. Jared Polis, will take effect on Jan. 1, 2027. It prevents stores from transferring ownership of dogs or cats, although they will still be allowed to host animals for adoption through shelters. The goal of the law is to stop "harmful overbreeding" and encourage adoption. Critics argue that the law targets the wrong group of regulated businesses rather than potentially bad actors in the breeding industry.