Legislative Alerts

July 26, 2019 The Dutchess County Legislature is considering two proposals in an effort to improve animal welfare in the county.  AKC Government Relations understands that the proposals are likely to be considered on Monday, August 12.  Those who reside or participate in performance or other events in Dutchess County are encouraged to contact the […]

Monday, July 22, 2019 Last week, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (Department) reissued a temporary order designating several animal diseases as “dangerous transmissible diseases”, including Canine Brucellosis (Brucella canis). As noted by the Department, transmission of B. canis bacteria occurs through exposure to secretions during estrus or mating or by contact with infected tissues during […]

Friday, July 19, 2019 Governor Raimondo has signed into law a pair of bills, H. 5433 and S. 465 that expand authorities’ ability to seize animals suspected of neglect or abuse. The AKC abhors animal cruelty and supports enforcement of strong animal cruelty laws.  For more information on these bills and AKC’s concerns, read our […]

July 18, 2019 This morning, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed the state budget.  Thanks to legislative leadership, an amendment was included in the budget that addressed an issue that arose in late 2018 where the Ohio Department of Agriculture was requiring all who sell dogs in the state to be licensed and regulated as a […]

Monday, July 15, 2019 On Monday, July 22nd, two bills of concern will be reviewed by the Massachusetts Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure.  Those who reside in Massachusetts are strongly encouraged to contact the committee to express concerns with these bills, which would significantly impact dog trainers and consumer protection. Summary: SB […]

July 12, 2019 The City of Tulsa is seeking input from city residents on a significant rewrite of the city’s animal control laws. A hearing was conducted on Monday, July 8, but thanks to the overwhelming response of local animal owners, the city agreed to not advance the proposal and allow residents to provide feedback […]

Friday, July 12, 2019 On June 28, a pair of problematic Rhode Island bills, H. 5433 and S. 465, were quickly passed by both the Senate and House.  Yesterday, these bills were sent to the Governor for her signature into law. H.5433 and S.465 allow the seizure of animals if, in the opinion of an […]

Thursday, July 11, 2019 On Thursday, July 18th, the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security will consider  HB 2037 and  SB 1431 to provide for the care and transportation of police dogs injured in the line of duty.  These bills were newly filed this year after Nero, a Yarmouth Police K9, was hospitalized for […]

July 2, 2019 The Lake County (Illinois) Board of Health will be holding a public hearing on July 9 in order to receive public comments on several changes to the county’s animal control ordinance. This is the result of a lengthy process, in which animal control was responding to local pressure for new laws to […]