A bill introduced in Iowa would seek to make it the 20th state to officially ban breed-specific laws and regulations.
The bill would prohibit cities and counties from enacting any regulation that is specific to a breed or perceived breed. Cities and counties may still enact laws that apply to all dogs.
The AKC supports Senate File 143, which protects the rights of dog owners while still allowing communities to enact laws that hold all owners accountable.
SF 143 has been assigned to a subcommittee before consideration by the full Senate State Government Committee. Those who reside or participate in dog events in the state are encouraged to contact the subcommittee members and express your support for this bill. If you are a constituent, click the link below to directly contact them. Let them know you are a constituent and if you participate in dog events in the district or own a breed that is often targeted in legislation.
Sen. Chris Cournoyer (Scott County) – chris.cournoyer@legis.iowa.gov
Sen. Claire Celsi (Polk County) – claire.celsi@legis.iowa.gov
Sen. Carrie Koelker (Dubuque County) – carrie.koelker@legis.iowa.gov
Visit the Breed-Specific/Dangerous Dog Laws page in the AKC Legislative Action Center for more talking points on this issue.
TAKE ACTION HERE: ASK Iowa Subcommittee to Support Bill Banning Breed-Specific Laws
AKC Government Relations will continue to monitor this bill and provide updates. For more information, contact AKC GR at doglaw@akc.org.