JEFFERSON CITY -- Politicians sometimes equivocate when asked about issues on the ballot, not wanting to alienate either side. But there may be an exception this year: puppies.

A proposal that would impose new regulations on the state's dog breeding industry drew enthusiastic support today from St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay and St. Louis County Executive Charlie Dooley.

The two Democrats urged voters to pass Proposition B on Nov. 2. Slay said it would "ensure that the tens of thousands of dogs in Missouri's commercial breeding operations will receive the proper care and attention that man's best friend deserves."

Dooley added: "It's time we shed the dubious distinction of being the epicenter of the puppy mill industry."

A study last spring by the Better Business Bureaus in St. Louis, Kansas City and Springfield found that Missouri is home to 30 percent of federally licensed dog breeders. The study concluded that state inspectors are overwhelmed and repeat violations persist.

Prop B would require anyone who has more than 10 breeding dogs to meet certain standards for housing, food and veterinary care. Owners also would be limited to no more than 50 breeding dogs.

The Humane Society of the United States and several other groups spearheaded the petition drive that got the measure on the ballot.

The dog breeding industry says it is unnecessary and the housing requirements alone would force many dog breeders out of business.

The opponents, including many state legislators, view the proposal as a step toward regulations that could jeopardize animal agriculture in all forms.