Legislative Alerts

The New York Assembly could soon consider a bill that makes certain hunting competitions illegal.  As written, however, Assembly Bill 5746 contains important amendments requested by the AKC to protect training and performance events. Summary: Assembly Bill 5746 is similar to bills introduced in previous sessions that would make it unlawful to organize, sponsor, or […]

The American Kennel Club’s Government Relations Department (AKC GR) has learned that East Amwell Township’s Township Committee did not advance a controversial animal ordinance proposal at its meeting last night. AKC expressed deep concerns that several elements of the proposal raised issues of vagueness, were overbroad, or violated due process.  AKC thanks the many concerned […]

On Wednesday, May 11, the Rhode Island Senate Environment and Agriculture Committee addressed concerns raised by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and Rhode Island residents by adopting an amended S. 2443.  Thank you to those residents who responded to AKC Government Relations’ (GR) alert last month that outlined concerns with the bill as introduced and […]

The Dallas City Council voted unanimously in favor of an ordinance that will prohibit pet stores from selling dogs sourced from dog breeders. This newly adopted ordinance will limit pet choice and consumer protections for Dallas area families seeking a dog that fits their needs and lifestyle. AKC regularly submitted opposition to the proposal dating […]

This week, the Delaware Senate Judiciary Committee passed an amended version of Senate Bill 258, which, as introduced, this bill that would have allowed a person to receive damages for both the veterinarian cost and care of a pet as well as damages for mental distress or emotional harm caused by the injury or death […]

This week, both the New York Senate and Assembly advanced bills that would prohibit retail pet stores from selling any dogs or cats.  Instead, these stores would only be allowed to “showcase” animals available for adoption from a shelter, rescue, or adoption agency that has no affiliation with breeders. Senate Bill 1130 passed the Senate […]

The American Kennel Club (AKC) is pleased to report that the Connecticut legislative session adjourned on May 4, 2022. The outcome of bills impacting dog owners is as follows: HB 5295 – Concerning Agriculture Development and Innovation (with a working group on establishing a state-wide online dog licensing portal and updates to kennel/dog licenses.) Status: […]

On Thursday, May 12, the Township Committee of East Amwell Twp., New Jersey, will consider extensive changes to the Township’s animal ordinances.  The American Kennel Club (AKC) is concerned that several elements of the draft raise issues of vagueness, are overbroad, or violate due process.  All concerned residents are strongly encouraged to contact Township officials […]

The New York State Assembly and Senate are expected to adjourn for the year in just four weeks.  As such, dozens of bills are on the move,  including many with the potential to impact dog owners. Please note that some bills are scheduled for hearings tomorrow, or are pending a vote at any time by […]

The American Kennel Club (AKC) thanks every Maine dog owner and resident who contacted their state lawmaker requesting support for LD 1885, as amended, to expand the state’s loan program to future practitioners of veterinary medicine. AKC and the Maine Federation of Dog Clubs are thrilled to share that Governor Janet Mills signed LD 1885 […]