Summer is fast approaching. And like schools, many legislatures are winding down for the year, or at least preparing for summer recess.
As lawmakers reach the end of sessions, it’s common to see a plethora of bills and amendments moving very quickly. AKC Government Relations (AKC GR) is working hard to keep you up to date on the fast-moving activity that could impact dogs, dog owners, and dog sports, and we encourage you to review the updates in this newsletter to see the latest information.
If you are a member of an AKC club, please ensure your club has an active legislative liaison – and that their contact information is up to date with AKC GR. When AKC GR learns of an issue, we alert our liaisons as quickly as possible and we rely on them to share the information as quickly as possible with fellow club members so you have the best possible opportunity to make your voice heard.
This was dramatically evident recently when problematic proposed amendments to the U.S. House Farm Bill were considered, which would have had a detrimental effect on recognized performance training and AKC events. Thanks to the quick action of club members throughout the country, HR 7567 passed the House without this language, and we are working on educating the Senate.
As state legislatures adjourn, AKC and our clubs have been proud to recognize lawmakers who took the time to listen to club members and breeders and made a positive impact for dogs. This past month, we honored lawmakers in Iowa and Oklahoma with the AKC Legislator of the Year Award for their tremendous efforts in support of dogs and responsible owners in their states.
We strongly encourage you to consider inviting lawmakers to your local events this summer, and continue to talk with them and educate them on responsible breeding and purebred dogs. Recently, the Central Ohio Kennel Club invited State Representative Meredith Lawson-Rowe to come present the best Junior Handler award and used the opportunity to talk to her on how they can work together to promote responsible pet ownership in their community.
AKC GR is pleased to introduce new tools in our Legislative Action Center to help you invite lawmakers to your shows and events, and ensure their visit is a success.
Please let us know if you are inviting lawmakers to your events, and AKC GR staff will work with you to help you make the most of the opportunity to educate them about canine legislative issues. Contact us at doglaw@akc.org. We look forward to continuing to work together on behalf of our dogs and our sports.