While debating a bill to fund state operations next year, the Massachusetts House of Representatives voted to adopt Amendment #19 to HB 5150, which will provide that not less than $50,000 be expended for the NEADS, Inc. service dogs for veterans program to train service dogs for veterans.
Unfortunately, Amendment #18, aka “Nero’s Bill”, which allows emergency care and transportation for a police dog injured in the line of duty, was not adopted. Representative Crocker, the sponsor, will continue to advocate for the bill’s independent passage this session.
The details of these amendments and AKC’s position can be viewed here. AKC’s Government Relations will continue to monitor the budget and legislative process and will communicate opportunities to support working dogs.
For more information on these or other legislative issues in Massachusetts, contact AKC’s Government Relations Department at 919-816-3720 or doglaw@akc.org; or the Massachusetts Federation of Dog Clubs and Responsible Dog Owners at info@massfeddogs.org.