This past week, the Wisconsin Assembly passed a bill allowing the state to establish regulations regarding food establishments. The bill includes an amendment stating that no rule may ban allowing dogs or cats at any establishment that sells only pre-packaged food.
The rules established by the state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection under Assembly Bill 276 could allow responsible dog owners more opportunity to enjoy activities and socialization with their well-behaved pets, while still allowing the state to ensure public health and safety are protected.
A similar bill, Senate Bill 298, would also allow regulations regarding food establishments, so long as no rules ban allowing dogs at a retail food establishment that receives no more than 5 percent of its total revenue from food sales.
Both bills are pending in the Senate Sporting Heritage, Small Business and Rural Affairs Committee. Those who wish to comment on these bills may contact the committee using the following information:
Sen. Rob Stafsholt, Chair
(608) 266-7745
Sen.Stafsholt@legis.wisconsin.gov
Sen. Jerry Petrowski, Vice Chair
(608) 266-2502
Sen.Petrowski@legis.wisconsin.gov
Sen. John Jagler
(608) 504-5213
Sen.Jagler@legis.wisconsin.gov
Sen. Jeff Smith
(608) 266-8546 or (877) 763-6636
Sen.Smith@legis.wisconsin.gov
Sen. Robert W. Wirch
(608) 267-8979
Sen.Wirch@legis.wisconsin.gov
For more information, contact AKC Government Relations at doglaw@akc.org.