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No one wants to vote against a puppy mill bill in an election year.

Becky Schmidt, manager of Charm City Puppies, which could be shut down under a new Maryland law -- the second of its kind in the country -- that bans retail pet stores from selling puppies and kittens. Animal rights advocates argue it will reduce the demand for "puppy mills."

Becky Schmidt, manager of Charm City Puppies, which could be shut down under a new Maryland law -- the second of its kind in the country -- that bans retail pet stores from selling puppies and kittens. Animal rights advocates argue it will reduce the demand for "puppy mills."

Caroline Cournoyer is GOVERNING's senior web editor.
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