On Tuesday, March 19, Washington Governor Jay Inslee signed House Bill 1012, a bill that protects owners and pets during extreme weather situations. This was the final step in House Bill 1012’s two-year journey.
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 develops 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 include funding to help with the establishment and operation of “warming and cooling centers” and transportation that is pet friendly.
AKC appreciates the tireless work of the bill’s primary sponsor, Representative Mari Leavitt, and to everyone else who aided in its passage. This bill will protect the lives of people and their beloved pets.
AKC looks forward to House Bill 1012’s implementation.
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.