Legislative Alerts

Next week, two communities in New Jersey will consider ordinances that restrict pet stores to selling only dogs sourced from shelters and rescues. On Tuesday, June 27, at 8PM, the Borough of Westwood will consider Ordinance #23-20, Prohibiting the Sale of Dogs and Cats by Retail Pet Stores.   Then, on Wednesday, June 28, at 7:30PM, […]

On Wednesday, June 21, the Kern County Animal Services Commission will reconsider a proposed ordinance concerning dog licensing for dog owners in Kern County which could lead to mandatory spay/neuter for violations of animal control laws. If advanced, the proposal would go to the Kern County Board of Supervisors for review and possible passage into […]

Dog Breed Discrimination Ends The American Kennel Club Government Relations team (AKC GR) is pleased to report that, effective October 1, 2023, all remaining local ordinances in Florida that discriminate against dogs based on breed, weight, or size are overturned. Senate Bill 942, supported by AKC, removes an exemption from state law that allowed certain […]

The Massachusetts Joint Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee (JCPPL) has scheduled a public hearing for Monday, June 26, 2023, from 1pm to 4pm, and will accept comments on a bill of concern to the American Kennel Club (AKC). REGULATION OF GROOMERS HB 310 would require anyone who grooms a pet for money to pass […]

The AKC Government Relations Department is pleased to introduce newly updated AKC economic and community impact figures for all 50 states. The AKC Impact By State packet provides valuable information to share with lawmakers, local media, chambers of commerce and other community entities about the positive impact that AKC clubs, affiliates and events have in each and […]

This week State Senator Gene Yaw introduced Senate Bill 785 , a reintroduction of a bill he sponsored last session to establish an Animal Welfare Board.  The bill, which will allow for a comprehensive review of current and future laws and regulations regarding dogs in the Commonwealth, includes representation by the AKC, the Pennsylvania Federation of Dog […]

On Monday, June 19, the Township of Mahwah, New Jersey, is scheduled to consider an ordinance that seeks to prohibit the retail sale of dogs and cats in retail stores.  This ordinance will limit pet choice and consumer protections for area families seeking a dog that fits their needs and lifestyle. Retail pet sales bans […]

On Wednesday, June 21, the Kern County Animal Services Commission will reconsider a proposed ordinance concerning dog licensing for dog owners in Kern County which could lead to mandatory spay/neuter for violations of animal control laws. If advanced, the proposal would go to the Kern County Board of Supervisors for review and possible passage into […]

The Louisiana legislature adjourned June 8, ending a quiet 2023 state session on dog issues. Among bills tracked by AKC Government Relations (AKC GR) were: House Bill 248, which allows the cremated remains of pets to be buried with humans subject to specified requirements. AKC Government Relations monitored this bill, which was signed by the […]

The American Kennel Club Government Relations team (AKC GR) reports that no significant bills affecting dogs passed during the 2023 Alabama legislative session that adjourned on June 6. AKC GR thanks dog owners, AKC club members, sportsmen, allied organizations, and individuals who worked with state lawmakers in support of fair and reasonable policy for dogs. […]