Legislative Alerts

The New York General Assembly is heading into what is likely the last week of session for the year.  While most bills impacting dog owners are no longer moving this year, bills that would essentially ban the veterinary practice of bark softening (“debarking”) and significantly restrict pet choice and breed rescue are still moving. New […]

In an early release of a June 1 notice, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced an extension and modification of the July 2021 temporary suspension of the importation of dogs from countries classified as high risk for canine rabies.  Based on improvements in its ability to track and monitor […]

A California Senate committee has scheduled a June 13 hearing on a bill regarding disclosures for dog trainers.  Assembly Bill 1901 contains numerous amendments requested by the AKC and California clubs. Those who wish to reach out to the Senate Business, Professions, and Economic Development Committee regarding AB 1901 may do so by submitting a […]

Arizona Governor Doug Ducey has signed two bills that will have a positive impact on Arizona dog owners. Arizona residents are encouraged to contact State Representative John Kavanagh (Dist. 23- Fountain Hills) and thank him for his sponsorship and leadership of both House Bill 2323 and House Bill 2626: Phone: (602) 926-5170 Email: jkavanagh@azleg.gov When […]

The New York Assembly is expected to vote today on a bill that will prohibit retail pet stores from selling any dogs or cats.  Instead, these stores would only be allowed to “showcase” animals available for adoption from a shelter, rescue, or adoption agency that has no affiliation with breeders. All who breed and sell […]

A bill recently amended in the California Assembly Appropriations Committee would require kennels to have an emergency preparedness plan. The bill has passed committees and will likely be considered soon by the full Assembly. Those who wish to contact their Assemblyperson regarding Assembly Bill 1648 may do so by typing your address on the State […]

The New York Assembly and Senate continue to advance bills that will provide new regulations regarding dogs being imported into the state for sale, and also numerous new requirements regarding the care of dogs at New York shelters. Those who wish to comment on these bills may do so at the links provided below. Summary: […]

Through multiple proposals and tenacious advocacy, both the House and Senate have approved a provision to ensure domestic animal welfare with adoption of an amended H. 729. Starting on page 28, amended H. 729 includes development of a plan for the unification and improvement of state administrative functions relating to domestic animal welfare protections.  Among […]

The Rhode Island Senate Finance Committee has scheduled a public hearing for multiple bills, including S. 2186, which would eliminate the sales tax on pet care services, defined as pet grooming and boarding services. (Veterinary services are already exempt from sales tax.) The bill also would eliminate the sales tax on taxi services. WHAT YOU […]

Yesterday, the Arizona Legislature sent a bill to the governor that would be the first step in preventing insurance companies from discriminating based on the breed of dog owned by the policy holder. Arizona residents are encouraged to contact Governor Ducey and ask him to sign House Bill 2323.  Use the online form to submit […]