To the Members of the California State Assembly:

I am returning Assembly Bill 241 without my signature.

This measure would make it a crime for any person or entity to own or control more
than 50 unsterilized adult dogs or cats for breeding or raising for sale as pets. I support measures designed to prevent animal cruelty and that punish persons engaged in the abuse of animals.

However, this measure simply goes too far in an attempt to address
the serious problem of puppy mills. An arbitrary cap on the number of animals any
entity can possess throughout the state will not end unlawful, inhumane breeding
practices.

Instead this measure has the potential to criminalize the lawful activities of reputable breeders, pet stores, kennels, and charitable organizations engaged in raising service and assistance dogs.

For these reasons, I am unable to sign this bill.

Sincerely,

Arnold Schwarzenegger