Legislative Alerts

In light of the terrible flooding caused by Hurricane Harvey currently affecting southeast Texas, here is a brief review of Texas' and neighboring Louisiana's disaster preparedness laws as they impact household pets.

Due to a number of changes on the Governor's staff, House Bill 2810 is still sitting idle. This bill would increase the instances where an animal is seized on suspicion of cruelty and may result in more Illinois dog owners losing their pets even if they are ultimately found not guilty.

AKC Government Relations just learned that California Assembly Bill 485 is scheduled for consideration and possible vote by the California Senate on Monday, August 28. Because this may be the last chance to express opposition to the bill, it is imperative that concerned Californians contact their state senators and express opposition to the proposal now.

APHIS proposes to implement changes to 'better promote sustained compliance with the AWA, reduce licensing fees and burdens, and strengthen existing safeguards that prevent individuals and businesses who are unfit to hold a license from obtaining a licensing or working with regulated animals.'

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has announced the rollout of the updated public search tool that provides access to Animal Welfare Act compliance records.

AKC Government Relations is pleased to share the latest issue of our In Session Congressional newsletter, which is sent to members of Congress and staff. This issue highlights our Capitol Hill celebration of National Purebred Dog Day, which included a reception where members of Congress, staff and guests could meet purebred dogs representing each breed […]

A bill has been passed by the Illinois Legislature that would increase the instances in which an animal is seized on suspicion of cruelty. This may result in more Illinois dog owners losing their animals even if they are ultimately found not guilty or charges are dropped. The bill is being transmitted to the governor […]

AKC has learned that the Washoe County Commission (Nevada) is considering a proposal that would require anyone who wishes to own more than three dogs to apply for a variance permit and have their dogs sterilized.

It is imperative that all California residents contact the members of the Committee and their state senator and express opposition to AB 485, which is scheduled for consideration by the State Senate Committee on Business, Professions, and Economic Development on Monday, July 17. The bill seeks to prohibit pet retailers from selling pets (including dogs, […]

The Massachusetts' General Court's Joint Judiciary Committee is scheduled to consider two bills of great concern to the American Kennel Club at its Tuesday, July 18, hearing. H.2290 seeks to change the legal status of pets from personal property to companion animals, while H.852 seeks to establish an animal abuse registry and impose certain additional […]