Legislative Alerts

Last month, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) proposed reissuing a rule to require that breeder/dealers, research facilities, intermediate handlers, carriers, and other animal enterprises subject to USDA licensing establish emergency/contingency planning in the event of a natural or manmade disaster or other business disruption. Under the proposed rule, […]

On August 17, Governor Chris Sununu signed two animal bills of high importance to the American Kennel Club (AKC) and New Hampshire Dog Owners of the Granite State (NH DOGS) into law.  Our deepest appreciation is extended to Representative Howard Pearl, Chairman of the House Committee on Environment and Agriculture, as these successes would not […]

Yesterday, a resolution was introduced in the California Assembly to recognize September as Service Dog Appreciation Month to honor service and working dogs, and declare “that Californians are grateful for the service and dedication these loyal companions provide for their owners and communities.” AKC encourages California dog owners to thank the author for introducing HR […]

On August 7, the Texas Legislature entered its second Special Session of 2021. Governor Abbott’s proclamation to convene the special session identified 17 agenda items for the legislature to consider, none of which involve dog-related issues.  Nevertheless House Bill 17 and Senate Bill 78, relating to the tethering of dogs, have been filed. Both HB […]

The Horry County (SC) County Council will hold the first of three votes on amendments to the county animal ordinance on Tuesday, August 17, 2021. Owners of pets and “large animals” are urged to review the proposed ordinance and express their concerns to council members. The numerous provisions that would affect dog owners include the […]

Amendments to the county animal ordinance were discussed at a special called meeting of the Henderson County (KY) Fiscal Court on August 9, 2021. Among other expected provisions, the proposed ordinance will address dangerous animals and the safety of dogs left enclosed in hot cars. The ordinance was not finalized as of August 11, 2021. […]

The California Senate Appropriations Committee is scheduled to consider two bills on August 16 that have the potential to impact some dog owners.  Those who wish to comment are encouraged to reach out directly to the committee (scroll down for more information). The committee is expected to consider the following legislation: Assembly Bill 468 – […]

The Fauquier County (VA) Board of Supervisors will be conducting a Public Hearing on August 12 on an  amendment to the County zoning ordinance that would prohibit the retail sale of dogs and cats in all commercial and industrial districts.  The prohibition would not apply to adoption events hosted by private non-profit or rescue groups. […]

Yesterday, the Illinois Governor signed Senate Bill 1672, which will require companies offering liability insurance for renter’s or homeowner’s insurance to report dog-related claims to the state for the next two years. This bill originally sought to prohibit insurance companies from discriminating against policyholders based on the breed of dog they own, however this met […]

The United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has issued a new federal order that imposes restrictions on the importation of live dogs for resale from regions where African swine fever (ASF) exists or is reasonably believed to exist. Regions include: The continent of Africa, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bhutan, Brazil (excluding […]