Puppy mill bill dies in House committee

Legislation that would have set standards for dog breeders has failed in the state House.

Senate Bill 460 passed the Senate last year but has languished in the House since then. Lawmakers don't expect any action on the bill before they adjourn next week.

The measure would have required breeders with at least 15 female dogs and 30 puppies to be licensed and to provide their animals with adequate daily exercise and housing.

The bill was introduced after the seizure of almost 300 dogs in February 2009 from what authorities say was a puppy mill in Wayne County.

Opponents said other laws already cover the issue, so another one wasn't needed.