Legislative Alerts

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 […]

The Washington State House Consumer Protection and Business Committee is scheduled to consider a bill on Wednesday, February 10, that would further restrict dog ownership limits in the state and regulate the sourcing of pet stores. AKC encourages State of Washington residents to contact the committee prior to the hearing to comment on this legislation […]

Alabama House Bill 235, among other provisions, would authorize food service establishments to allow pet dogs in outdoor restaurant seating areas if the company wishes to do so.  It requires that the dog be leashed or in a pet carrier and under control, and sets out access, sanitation, and other requirements. HB 235 is on […]

A problematic and overreaching proposed animal ordinance is scheduled for a second reading on Tuesday, February 16, at the Greenwood County Council Meeting.  The proposal includes licensing for dog breeders, vague sheltering requirements for all animals, and burdensome requirements—including fees of up to $1,000—to reclaim an impounded pet.  Concerned residents should contact members of the […]