Los Angeles, California (CNN) Los Angeles is set to become the biggest city in the nation to ban retail sale of dogs, cats and rabbits from commercial breeders.
The city council tentatively passed a new law Wednesday, saying animals sold at pet stores must come from shelters and rescue groups.
The controversial measure is aimed keeping animals from being bred and kept in unsafe conditions, at so-called puppy mills.
Supporters say the law will also help reduce the number of pets euthanized each year.
Others say it takes away pet owners' freedom.
"We have a lot of pet stores that are selling these dogs from irresponsible breeders from large scale high volume commercial facilities."
"Now they'll be part of the solution, because they'll actually sell dogs and cats and rabbits from city shelters."
"People should have a choice. If they want to go to a shelter, they have every right to do that. But if they also want to come to a store to buy a reputable, healthy, well-bred puppy, they have the option to do that as well."
The council voted 12 to two in favor of the measure.
Since the vote was not unanimous, the council will revisit the issue next week.
Dozens of smaller cities, including Huntington Beach and Irvine, have passed.