Legislative Alerts

Today, the United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), which is responsible for enforcement of the federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA), announced that it is rescinding December 2017 (updated in May 2018) guidance that described an incentive program that recognized licensees and registrants who took appropriate and timely action to […]

The Nebraska Legislature Judiciary Committee is scheduled to consider two bills next week that provide certain liability protections when there has been exposure to the COVID-19 virus. These bills may be of potential interest to some AKC-affiliated clubs with concerns about conducting their events while under a higher-than-normal exposure to liability risks. Bill Summaries: The […]

Last week, Maine Governor Janet Mills issued an Executive Order that reinstates the state’s dog licensing requirements. In March 2020, Governor Mills declared a state of emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  The order temporarily suspended licensing laws in order to facilitate health and veterinary care during the public health crisis.  The order has been […]

RECAP OF THIS WEEK: For specifics on bills that were considered during the week of February 9, 2021, click here. CONCERNING AN ANIMAL RECORDS DATABASE The American Kennel Club Government Relations Department (AKC GR) and the Dog Owners of the Granite State (NH DOGS) expressed concerns to the Senate Finance Committee about the original animal […]

With the COVID-19 pandemic altering the Massachusetts legislature’s process last year, “Nero’s Law”, which would allow emergency care and transportation for a police dog injured in the line of duty, unfortunately did not make it onto the Governor’s desk before the end of the session.  The bill is named for “Nero”, the K9 partner of […]

AKC Government Relations is pleased to announce a new, easy-to use option for dog owners to engage in canine policy issues directly from their mobile device. Individuals who receive AKC legislative alerts are now eligible to sign up for  AKC Legislative Alerts via text messaging.* In addition to getting real-time text alerts about issues that […]

The Utah Senate Judiciary, Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Committee has scheduled a hearing for tomorrow (Thursday, February 11) on a bill that clarifies current law regarding liability for owners when their dog causes injuries to another animal. Those who wish to comment on this bill are encouraged to contact the committee prior to tomorrow’s […]

Over the past few weeks, the Standing Committees of the Maryland Legislature have been busy holding hearings on numerous bills in preparation for floor action by the full House and Senate. Here are some updates on bills of interest to Maryland dog owners.  Scroll down for the latest information and how you can take action […]

The Hawaii House Committee on Agriculture is scheduled to consider bills on mandatory microchipping, tethering clarifications, and others related to dogs at its hearing on Wednesday, February 10, 2021.  Dog owners are encouraged to contact the committee members with any input or concerns they may have. HB 1287 seeks to require all dog owners to […]

This week, the Oklahoma Legislature is considering a number of bills relating to dogs, including: House Bill 1620 – Protecting Working Animals – This bill protects “the right to utilize working animals for the mutual benefit and welfare of working animals and those the working animals serve.” As written, HB 1620 would ensure this protection […]