Legislative Alerts

Monday, August 12, 2019 The American Kennel Club’s Government Relations Department (AKC GR) is pleased to announce that amended New Jersey Assembly Bill 4552 was signed into law by Governor Phil Murphy on Friday, August 9. See AKC’s position statement on Protection for Puppy Purchasers. As introduced, A.4552 sought to prohibit predatory pet leasing schemes […]

Friday, August 9, 2019 Yesterday, the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) issued guidance to help travelers understand their rights while new regulations are being developed. The DOT is currently developing new rules to govern what types of animals will be allowed to accompany passengers on flights and what documentation will be required to determine […]

August 5, 2019 The Fort Smith Board of Directors will consider an ordinance tomorrow, August 6, 2019, that seeks to establish dog and cat licensing; excessively costly dog breeder licensing fees; and new requirements, fees and penalties that impact a wide range of pet owners. The Board will also consider a resolution to approve a […]

August 2, 2019 On Monday, the Cape Coral City Council will hold a public hearing on a proposed ordinance that seeks to ban the sale of purpose-bred dogs and cats by pet retailers in favor of randomly sourced animals from shelters and “rescue pet” distributors. Concerned citizens are encouraged to attend the meeting and speak […]

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 […]