California could become the first state to outlaw so-called puppy mills with legislation that bans pet stores from selling dogs, cats and rabbits that do not come from rescue organizations or shelters.

California legislators passed the bill, AB 485, on Thursday and sent it to Gov. Jerry Brown, who has until Oct. 15 to act.

The bill laid bare the divisions among animal rights advocates, breeders and pet store owners. Opponents said the bill would put pet stores out of business and deny consumer protections to the public, while supporters said it will cut off a pipeline of animals bred under inhumane conditions.

The Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council called on Mr. Brown to veto the bill. “Pet lovers deserve to know the medical history of their prospective pet, and to have recourse under certain circumstances if the pet is ill or dies due to illness,” it said in a statement.