On Tuesday, March 5, the Washington state Legislature passed House Bill 1012, a bill that would protect owners and pets during extreme weather situations. The final step in House Bill 1012’s two-year journey is a decision by Governor Jay Inslee.
Washington state residents are encouraged to support House Bill 1012. Scroll down for ways to help.
Summary:
House Bill 1012 was written in response to a severe heat wave in the state in 2021 that left many people and their pets without a safe place to go. The proposal would develop an “extreme weather grant program” to help localities offset the costs of assisting their communities during severe weather if they do not have the resources to help those who are “socially vulnerable”. These grants would include funding to help with the establishment and operation of “warming and cooling centers” that are pet friendly.
AKC appreciates this bill, which will allow these individuals and their pets to be transported to safe facilities that will protect their health and safety if they have no other viable options. This bill will protect the lives of people and their beloved pets.
What You Can Do:
House Bill 1012 needs the governor’s signature by Thursday, March 28. Those who wish to encourage the governor to sign the bill can do so here! After clicking the link, fill out your contact info and select “Legislative Bills and Comments” from the dropdown menu. Then in your message, be sure to include that you support HB 1012 and that it will save the lives of people, their pets and protect first responders from having to conduct rescues of people with no place to go during emergencies.
AKC greatly appreciates all those who have helped to get House Bill 1012 to the governor’s desk.
AKC Government Relations continues to monitor bills in Washington impacting dog owners and will provide updates. For questions or more information, contact AKC GR at doglaw@akc.org.