State lawmakers are considering a bill that would ban the sale of dogs, cats and rabbits at pet stores.

Pet stores would only be allowed to sell items such as food, supplies and pet toys.

The stores would also be allowed to feature animals from shelters in the stores. The customer would just pay an adoption fee.

Supporters argue that many of the puppy mills that supply stores are selling unhealthy animals.

Pet store owners are among those fighting the bill, which was also proposed but not approved last year in Albany.

Demonstrators gathered outside the Syosset office of state Sen. Jim Gaughran, who they want to announce his support for the bill. Gaughran says he's still reviewing it.

Opponents of the bill say people should have the option of whether to buy or adopt their pets. They say the bill won't put an end to unscrupulous puppy mills and that it will only put pet stores out of business.

The proposal was voted out of committee in the state Senate Monday, meaning it could be voted on by the full Senate sometime before the current session ends in June. The bill also has a sponsor in the state Assembly.