K9 PAC Agenda: State Legislation

Alabama

Status:
Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/12/10 - 4/22/10)

The 2010 legislative session is now adjourned. There is not active legislation at this time.

Alaska

Status:
Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/19 - 4/18)

Animal Cruelty - Increased Penalties (H.B. 138 / S.B. 214)

Status: Passed - awaiting Governor's signature.

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Makes it a felony on the first offense to torture or poison an animal. 

Sponsors:
Rep. Carl Gatto (R, 13)
Sen. Bill Wielechowski (D, J)

Arizona

Status:
Legislature In session

Legislative Session:
Convened 1/11
Adjourns 5/26

Steroid Ban for Greyhound Racing (HB 2637)

Status: Pending in committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Bans the use of anabolic steroids in greyhounds for dog racing.

Sponsors:
Senators Fleming (D,25), Heinz (D,29), Young Wright (D,26), Tovar (D,13), Antenori (R,30), Waters (D,20), Campbell (D,14), Campbell (D,16)

Animal Fighting (S.B. 1054)

Status: Held

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Adds animal fighting to the definition of racketeering.

Sponsor:
Sen. Jonathan Paton (R, 30)

Veterinarian Reporting Duties (S.B. 1057)

Status: Passed Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires veterinarians to report suspected cruelty, neglect, abuse, or animal fighting and provides immunity from civil liability if acting in compliance with the law.

Sponsor:
Sen. Jonathan Paton (R, 30)

Pet Protection Order (S.B. 1085)

Status: Passed Senate

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Allows for animals to be included in protection orders.

Sponsor:
Sen. Paula Aboud (D, 28)

Public Sale of Animals (S.B. 1125)

Status: Passed Senate

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Makes it illegal to sell animals to the public on a highway, street, or park in certain counties.

Sponsor:
Sen. Melvin (R, 26)

Excluding Federally Regulated Scientific Experiments from Animal Cruelty (S.B. 1159)

Status: Passed Committee

K9 PAC Position: OPPOSE

Summary: Exempts scientific experiments on animals in federally regulated scientific research facilities from the animal cruelty statute.

Sponsors:
Senators S. Pierce (R,1), S. Allen (R,5), Leff (R,11), Burns (R,9), L. Gray (R,10), Huppenthal (R,20), Stevens (R,25)

Greyhound Racing
(S.B. 1294)

Status: In Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Will help phase out live dog racing in Arizona

Sponsor:
Sen. Paula Aboud (D, 28)

Amendments to Impoundment Procedures at Animal Shelters (S.B. 1318)

Status: Passed Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Similar to portions of Hayden's law in California, this bill would amend the existing law to require shelters to provide prompt and humane care and nutrition, make a reasonable attempt to find the owner of the animals, and make appointments available to reclaim animals if they do not have sufficient business hours during the weekdays or limited staff. It also states that shelters shall make every reasonable effort to avoid euthanasia of an adoptable animal and may give the animal to a county-approved nonprofit animal rescue. More stringent record keeping requirements and other pro-animal amendments are included. Click here to read more.

Sponsor:
Sen. Melvin (R, 26)

Arkansas

Status:
Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(2/8/10 - 3/9/10)

There is no active dog-related legislation in Arkansas at this time.  Please check back soon for updates.

California

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 1/4
Adjourns 8/31

Fur Labeling Act (A.B. 1656)

Status:
Amended,
re-refered to JUD committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits the sale of any coat, jacket, garment, or other apparel made wholly or partially of fur, regardless of the value of the fur, without having attached and displayed a tag or label includingthe names of the animals from which the fur was acquired and the country of origin of any imported furs.

K9 PAC Statement: Under current laws, items valued under $150 dollars need not be labeled as containing fur. This is an issue of K9 PAC concern because much of the fur used in these types of products originate from dogs. The fur is typically imported from overseas (i.e. China), where dogs are kept in horrific conditions and then skinned to create fur accented clothing and accessories that are sold in the US and other markets. We are confident that once consumers become aware that clothing contains dog fur, the dog fur trade industry will vanish, freeing thousands of dogs from lives of torment and brutal death.

Sponsor:
Asm. Fiona Ma (D,12)

Increased Penalties for Animal Cruelty (A.B. 2012)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Increases penalties for animal cruelty from a maximum of 6 months in jail to a maximum of 1 year

Sponsor:
Asm Lieu (D,53)

Animal Abuse Registry
(S.B. 1277)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Establishes an animal abuse registry that is funded from a pet food tax.

Sponsor:
Sen Florez (D,16)

Colorado

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 1/6
Adjourns 5/11

Pet Protection Orders (S.B. 80)

Status: Passed Senate

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Allows courts to include protections for animals in civil protection orders.

Sponsor:
Sen. Linda Newell (D, 26)

Connecticut

Status:
Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(2/3/10 - 5/5/10)

Cross Reporting of Child Abuse & Animal Cruelty (H.B.5041)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires cross-reporting of animal cruelty and child abuse. Adds animal control officers to the list of mandated reporters.

Sponsor:
Rep. Mioli (D,136)

Pet Shop Licensee Requirements (H.B. 5118)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: OPPOSE

Summary: Removes the requirement that Certificates of Origin for dogs sold by Pet Shop Licensees must be filed with the Department of Agriculture.

Sponsor:
Environment Committee

Tethering (S.B. 274)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits unreasonable confinement and tethering of a dog and defines "unreasonable". Each day a dog is tethered in an unreasonable manner constitutes a separate offense punishable by fines of up to $500 per offense for three or more offenses.

Sponsor:
Environment Committee

Delaware

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 1/12
Adjourns 6/30

Increasing Criminal Penalties for Animal Fighting (H.B. 2)

Status: Passed House

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: This bill increases the penalties for animal fighting, baiting, and attendance from a class F felony to a class E felony, and increases the penalties for being present where an exhibition of fighting and/or baiting is being prepared and knowing that the exhibition is about to take place from a class G felony to a class F felony. This bill also expands the penalty provisions to allow a court to order persons convicted of animal fighting to attend mandatory counseling and/or psychological treatment, and to pay the costs of treatment and/or counseling.

Sponsor:
Rep. Joseph Miro (R, 22)

Pet Protective Orders (H.B. 77)

Status: Passed House

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Clarifies existing law to make clear that courts may order that a petitioner be given possession of a family pet via a protective order in cases of domestic violence.

Sponsor:
Rep. Bryon Short (D,7)

Minimum Age Requirement for Puppy Sales (H.B. 78)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: This Bill makes it unlawful to sell or otherwise transfer a puppy until it is 8 weeks of age.

Sponsor:
Rep. Bryon Short (D,7)

Limits and Protections for Breeding Dogs (H.B. 95)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits the possession of more than 25 breeding dogs at any time, requires regular veterinary examinations for breeding dogs, prohibits breeding dogs under 18 months old and over 8 years old, and prohibits female dogs from giving birth to more than one litter per year. The bill also requires that ear cropping, tail docking, surgical births, and debarking must be done under anesthesia and by a licensed veterinarian.

Sponsor:
Rep. Melanie George Marshall (D, 5)

Civil Penalties for Selling Dogs at Open Air Markets (H.B. 278)

Status:Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: This bill makes it unlawful to sell or trade a cat or dog in an open-air market, including public highways and streets, commercial parking lots and flea markets. This bill does not apply to nonprofit pounds and similar organizations, nor does it apply to rodeos, county fairs and similar events. This bill does not create a criminal offense. Instead, a person found by a court to be in violation of this statute is subject to civil fines.

Sponsor:
Rep. Bryon Short (D, 7)

Restrictions on Dog Tethering (H.B. 293)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: This bill establishes a formula for calculating the proper enclosure size for housing a dog. It also clarifies when the space requirements and limitations do not apply.  The bill further establishes more detailed requirements for persons who tether their dogs, including a prohibition on tethering of dogs under 4 months of age, tethering dogs during extreme weather, and a prohibition of tethering any dog between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., unless it is only for a period of less than fifteen minutes.

Sponsor:
Rep. Melanie George Marshall (D, 5)

Making Jail Time Mandatory for Animal Fighting (S.B. 21)

Status:Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: This Act imposes a minimum mandatory 6 months in jail for bull, bear, dog or cockfighting or baiting. The offense is a class F felony.

Sponsor:
Sen. Colin Bonini (R, 16)

District of Columbia

Status:
Legislature In Session

Pit Bull Ban (B18-52)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: OPPOSE

Summary:Prohibits the importation, possessing, selling, or adopting of pit bulls; requires current pit bull owners to register with animal control and pay a fee; requires pit bulls to be spayed or neutered; requires destruction of any pit bull who does not meet the requirements.

K9 PAC Statement:
Please refer to the K9 PAC blog for a more in-depth look at the dangers and concerns surrounding breed ban legislation.

Sponsor:
Councilmember Jim Graham (D, 1)

Florida

Status:
Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(3/2/10 - 5/1/10)

Breed Specific Legislation (S.B. 1276/H.B. 543)

Status: Committee to vote on 3/4/2010

K9 PAC Position: OPPOSE

Summary: Removes the existing prohibition on breed-specific local government regulations of dangerous dogs.

Sponsor:
Rep. Perry Thurston (D, 93)

K9 PAC Comment:
K9 PAC strongly opposes breed bans and is highly disappointed in Rep. Perry Thurston for introducing a bill that would undo the efforts to end breed discrimination. K9 PAC has urged every Senator on the committee to oppose S.B. 1276. To read more about why breed bans are detrimental, click here.

Georgia

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/12/10 - 4/2/10)

Pet Protective Orders (H.B. 429)

Status: Passed Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Allows a judge to include protections for pets in protective orders in cases of family violence. 

Sponsor:
Rep. Cooper (R, 41)

Require Microchip Scans of Homeless Animals (H.B. 1106)

Status: Passed House

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires that animal shelters and similar facilities scan animals for microchips prior to euthanizing them. Establishes that a reasonable effort must be made to contact the owner. The bill also repeals conflicting laws.

Sponsor:
Rep. Maddox (R,172)

Humane Care (H.B. 1153)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Adds a definition of "humane care" that includes making accessible adequate food and drinkable water; providing sanitary shelter, ventilation and sufficient shade, adequate housing which offers protection from the weather and harsh temperatures that pose a substantial risk of endangering the health or well-being of the animal; and routine and emergency veterinary care when necessary. This would tighten a loophole in the existing law that refers to wilfull neglect, which requires intent, making it more difficult to prove that an owner is in violation.

Sponsor:
Rep. Levitas (D,82)

Pet Trusts (S.B. 131)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Allows for the creation of a trust to provide for the care of an animal and/or a charitable trust for animals. 

K9 PAC Comment:
Many pets are left homeless each year following the death of their owner, which adds to overcrowding in shelters and leaves an animal who is used to a loving home to sit in a shelter and possibly face euthanasia. Pet trusts are terrific ways to ensure that dogs and other pets are taken care of in the event that something happens to their human family.

Sponsor:
Sen. Hamrick (R,30)

Permitted Methods for Animal Euthanasia (S.B. 232 / H.B. 606)

Status: PASSED

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: This Bill states that the preferred method of animal euthanasia shall be by intravenous injection of sodium pentobarbital and requires training for individuals administering intravenous injections.  It also prohibits the use of carbon monoxide chambers and removes the provision grandfathering chambers that were in existence prior to 1990.

K9 PAC Comment: K9 does not support the euthanasia of physically healthy and mentally balanced dogs.  When necessary, however, we believe that euthanasia should be as humane as possible.  K9 PAC will continue to work with other animal organizations and shelters to create an environment where dog euthanasia is no longer necessary for population control.

Sponsor:
Rep. Knox (R, 24)
Sen. Henson (D, 41)

Hawaii

Status:
Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/20/10 - 5/7/10)

Making the Consumption of Dogs and Cats a Felony (H.B. 1281)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Makes it a class C felony to intentionally or knowingly kill a cat or dog for the purpose of human consumption or to consume any part of a cat or dog.

Sponsor :
Rep. Tom Brower (D, 23)

Animal Dealer and Breeder Assurances (H.B. 1842)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires pet dealers and dog breeders to provide purchasers of dogs with written statements of the dog's medical history.  Allows consumers to return dogs to a pet dealer or breeder for a refund or exchange where the dog has a pre-existing condition. 

K9 PAC Comment: K9 PAC is in favor of this bill, and hopes that the final version will include a provision requiring the continued care or location of alternative homes for animals returned to animal dealers and breeders.

Sponsor :
Rep. Maile Shimabukuro (D, 45)

Tethering (H.B. 2724)

Status: Passed committee with amendments

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits tethering a dog with a chain that is less than 5 times the length of the dog, or 10 feet, whichever is longer; prohibits tethering a dog with a chain that weighs more than 10% of the dog’s weight; prohibits tethering a dog if the chain does not have a swivel on one end; prohibits tethering a dog younger than 6 months.

Sponsor :
Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu (D, 41)

Pit Bull Ban (S.B. 79)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: OPPOSE

Summary: Prohibits ownership, possession, or sale of pit bulls.  Provides for misdemeanor offense.  Authorizes impoundment and forfeiture.

K9 PAC Comment: K9 PAC is strongly opposed to all breed bans, especially those as poorly designed and indiscriminate as S.B. 79.  This is a uniquely reckless bill because unlike the pit bull owners in other areas of the country, Hawaii pit bull owners lack sufficient options for relocation. 

K9 PAC is extremely disappointed in Sen. Colleen Hanabusa for introducing this irresponsible, dangerous, and poorly conceived legislation.

Sponsor:
Sen. Colleen Hanabusa (D, 21)

Dogfighting Penalties (S.B. 763 / H.B. 730)

Status: In Conference Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Repeals existing dogfighting law and enacts a more comprehensive law.  Prohibits wagering at a dogfight; prohibits transporting, breeding, selling, transferring or equipping a dog with the intent to fight the dog; prohibits allowing any dog used for fights to be kept, boarded, housed, trained on, or transported in any property; prohibits knowingly allowing any means of communication to promote dogfighting; prohibits possessing devices intended to enhance a dog’s fighting ability. Makes all of these offenses Class C Felonies. Imposes enhanced penalties for subsequent offenses. 

Sponsors:
Sen. Suzanne Chun Oakland (D, 13)
Rep. John Mizuno (D, 30)

Primary Enclosures for Pets (S.B. 2800 / H.B. 2725)

Status: Passed committee with amendments

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Amends the definition of necessary sustenance to include a primary pet enclosure that provides shelter; safe construction to prevent injury; room to stand, sit, or lie down; and safe interactions with other animals.

Sponsors:
Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu (D, 41)
Sen. Brian Taniguchi (D, 10)

Idaho

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/11/10 - 4/7/10)

The legislature is adjourned for 2010.

Illinois

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 1/13
Adjourns 1/11/2011

Abandoned Animals (H.B. 4977)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires any person who is lawfully on a vacated property who notices a companion animal housed on the property to notify animal control or law enforcement; grants such a person immunity; authorizes animal control or law enforcement to enter the property to retrieve the animal.

Sponsor:
Rep. Thomas Holbrook (D, 113) 

Breeders Licensing and Requirements (H.B. 5771)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires licensing of dog breeders with six or more breeding females, requires any licensee to provide necessary veterinary care, to space out breeding cycles, and provide sufficient space. Defines additional requirements for commercial dog breeders to provide adequate housing, space, and exercise.

Sponsor:
Rep. Mendoza (D,1)

Tethering (S.B. 2580)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits tethering a dog between the hours of 10pm and 6am and during extreme weather conditions; prohibits tethering a dog who is less than 6 months old; prohibits tethering a dog with a chain that is more than 1/8 of the dog’s weight or with a tow or log chain; prohibits tethering with a chain that is less than 15 feet long; prohibits tethering with pinch, prong or choke type collars.

Sponsor:
Sen. Holmes (D, 42) 

Euthanasia (S.B. 2999)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: OPPOSE

Summary: Removes a provision requiring only one animal be euthanized at a time, requires veterinarians to use professional judgement when deciding whether or not a procedure shall involve the euthanasia of a single or multiple animals.

Sponsor:
Sen. Brady (R,44)

K9 PAC Comment: This bill is related to the continued use of gas chambers for euthanasia, which is a practice that we are opposed to.

Increased Penalties Involving Children & Dogfighting
(S.B. 3628/H.B. 5790)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Increases the penalty for bringing a child under 13 years old to a dogfight and dogfighting within 1,000 feet of a school, park, or day care. Also Prohibits tying any live animal to a machine or device propelled by any power for the purpose of causing a dog to pursue it.

Sponsor:
Rep. Yarbrough (D,7)
Sen. Lightford (D,4)

Disclosure Requirements for Pet Shops & Shelters
(S.B. 3633/H.B. 5772)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires animal shelters, animal control, and pet shops to disclose certain information about the animals. Pet shops would be required to inform customers of the names and addresses of the breeders, any citations for the breeder, name and address of the broker, known diseases of the parents, and total number of puppies born at the breeder's facility in the previous year.

Sponsor:
Rep. Mendoza (D,1)
Sen. Kotowski (D,33)

Pet Shop Sources (S.B. 3641)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: OPPOSE

Summary: Provides that a pet shop may only purchase a dog or cat from a dog dealer, large-scale dog breeder, cattery operator, or other pet shop operator that is state or federally licensed. This bill also contains a variety of licensing requirements for breeders, shelters, and daycare providers.

Sponsor:
Sen. Althoff (R,32)

K9 PAC Comment: This bill would make it mandatory for pet shops to get their dogs from puppy mills (large-scale dog breeders) and animal dealers, two entities that K9 PAC strongly opposes. Pet shops should not be in the business of selling dogs; dogs are meant to be our companions, not products that are used to turn a profit. The root of this issue lies with puppy mills and animal dealers (click here to read more about why puppy mills are one of our urgent eight issues).

K9 PAC aims to prohibit puppy mills and animal dealers from buying, selling, and trading dogs. Puppy mills are dog factories where sometimes thousands of dogs are kept solely as breeding machines; they do not get exercise, veterinary care, or the chance to live with a family. These animals spend their lives in cages and many never see the sun and have never walked on the ground. Animal dealers work with puppy mills and other facilities as the "middle men". They have been known to steal family pets or take dogs from shelters and unwitting family breeders to sell them for scientific research purposes. Both entities are profit-driven and neither source cares for the well-being of the animal. K9 PAC aims to prohibit animal dealers and puppy mills; this bill guarantees that they will stay in business and increase profits by eliminating competition with responsible sources. We urge Senator Althoff to withdraw this bill immediately.

Indiana

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(11/17/09 - 3/14/10)

Pet Stores and Animal Fighting (H.B. 1258)

Status: Passed House

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires a pet store to provide information to customers about the animal's history, and requires the pet store to send a copy of the sales disclosure form to the board of animal health; establishes basic animal welfare standards for pet stores; requires pet stores to deposit $25/animal sold into the commercial dog breeder and broker fund; makes promoting an animal fighting contest a predicate offense under the racketeering statute; makes attending an animal fighting contest a Class D felony.

Sponsor:
Rep. Linda Lawson (D, 1) 

Iowa

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/11/10 - 4/20/10)

Restrictions on Shooting Dogs (H.F. 33)

Status:Referred to Natural Resources Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Clarifies the restrictions on shooting dogs.

Sponsors:
Rep. Jim Lykam (D, 85)

Inspection of Puppy Mills [H.F. 486 (formerly H.F. 30) & S.F. 265 (formerly SSB 1242/S.F. 69) ]

Status: Referred to Public Safety

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Allows the state to inspect USDA licensed puppy mills. 

Sponsors:
Rep. Jim Lykam (D, 85)
Sen. Joe Seng (D, 43)

Puppy Mills (SF 2233/HF 2280)

Status: Signed into law!

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires commercial breeders, dealers and auctions to obtain state permits; prohibits pet shops, dealers, commercial breeders and auctions from purchasing a dog or cat from an unauthorized commercial establishment; establishes basic standards of care; requires record-keeping; allows for state inspections

Sponsor:
Rep. Jim Lykam (D, 85)

Kansas

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/11/10 - 4/10/10)

There is no active dog-related legislation in Kansas at this time.  The legislature is adjourned for the remainder of 2010.

Kentucky

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/5/10 - 4/1/10)

Forfeiture (H.B. 225)

Status:Judiciary Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Allows forfeiture of animals involved in cruelty and torture cases and prohibits ownership or possession of animals of the same species for two years.

Sponsors:
Rep. Ronald Crimm (R, 33)

Immunity to Veterinarians (H.B. 238)

Status:Passed House

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Amended to provide that veterinarians who, in good faith, report suspected incidents of animal abuse or torture to the proper authorities are not in violation of patient/client confidentiality.

Sponsors:
Rep. Richards (D,20)
Rep. Jenkins (D,44)
Rep. Miller (D,28)

Requiring Veterinarians to report (S.B. 1057 / H.B. 2612)

Status:Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires veterinarians who reasonably suspect or believe that an animal has been a victim of abuse, cruelty, neglect, or has been involved in animal fighting, shall report that suspicion.

Louisiana

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convenes 3/29
Adjourns 6/21

There is no active dog-related legislation in Louisiana at this time.  Please check back soon for updates.

Maine

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/6/10 - 4/21/10)

Animal Cruelty (LD 1598)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Makes it a felony crime to commit cruelty to animals if there are 25 or more animals invovled

Sponsors:
Deborah Simpson (D, 15)

Maryland

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/13/10 - 4/13/10)

Animal Cruelty (S.B. 21)

Status: Passed Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Increases the penalties for misdemeanor animal cruelty; allows courts to prohibit people convicted of animal cruelty from owning animals in the future.

Sponsor:
Sen. James Robey (D, 13) 

Prohibit Sale of Puppies at Pet Stores (S.B. 505)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits the sale of puppies at pet stores.

Sponsor:
Sen. Lisa Gladden (D, 41) 

Massachusetts

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 1/6/10
Adjourns 1/4/11

Devocalization Surgery Prohibition (H.B. 344)

Status: SIGNED INTO LAW!

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits devocalization surgery for dogs and cats.

Sponsor:
Rep. Lida Harkins (D, Thirteenth Norfolk)

Prohibit Breed Discrimination by Insurance Companies (H.B. 913)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits insurance companies from refusing to issue/renew or from cancelling/imposing an increased premium based on the harboring of a specific breed of dog on the property, unless the particular dog has been deemed dangerous by the authorities.

Sponsor:
Rep. Gobi (D,5)

Willful or Malicious Cruelty (H.B. 1268)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Imposes terms of imprisonment in the state prison up to five years, imprisonment in jail for up to two and one-half years, and/or fines up to five thousand dollars for the willful or malicious killing, maiming, poisoning, torture or disfigurement of any animal of one's own or another person; modifies the laws pertaining to punishment for cruel treatment of animals, so that mutilation or death of the animal is unnecessary to impose said sanctions.

Sponsor:
Rep. Bruce Ayers (D, First Norfolk)

Failing to Provide Veterinary Care as Animal Cruelty (H.B. 1303)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Adds failing to provide veterinary care to the definition of animal cruelty

Sponsor:
Rep. Jennifer Callahan (D, 18th Worcester)

Pet Protection Order (H.B. 1319 & H.B. 1499)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Includes pets in domestic abuse protection orders.

Sponsor:
Rep. Katherine Clark (D, 32nd Middlesex) & Rep. Peter Koutoujian (D, 10th Middlesex)

Animal Fighting Paraphernalia (H.B. 1466)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits the sale, creation, leasing, or rental of dog fighting paraphernalia.

Sponsor:
Rep. Louis Kafka (D, 8th Norfolk)

Puppy Mills (S.B. 774)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Limits the number of animals that can be owned for breeding and sets out humane care standards.

Sponsor:
Sen. Robert Hedlund (R, Plymouth)

Greyhound Racing (SB 2140 & SB 2138)

Status: Referred to committee

K9 PAC Position: OPPOSE

Summary: Extends the phase out of greyhound racing in the Commonwealth.

Sponsor:
Senator Marc Pacheco (D, 1st Plymouth and Bristol)

Michigan

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 1/13/10
Adjourns 12/31/10

Sex Offender Registration Requirements (H.B. 4570)

Status: Judiciary Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Specifies sodomy of an animal for inclusion in sex offender registration requirements.

Sponsors:
Rep. Jones (D,60)

Pound Seizure and Animal Experimentation (H.B. 4663)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: A dealer,  a county, city, village, or township operating a dog pound or animal control shelter or animal protection shelter shall not sell or otherwise dispose of a dog or cat within 4 days after its acquisition. If the dog or cat has a collar, license, or other evidence of ownership, the operator of the pound or animal control shelter or animal protection shelter shall notify the owner in writing and disposition of the animal shall not be made within 7 days from the date of mailing the notice. Control shelter or animal protection shelter.  Additionally, a person is prohibited from obtaining a random source animal and reselling the animal for experimentation.

Sponsors:
Rep. John Espinoza (D, 83)

Humane Euthanasia (H.B. 4803)

Status: Referred to committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires shelters and class b dealers to euthanize only by sodium pentobarbital.

Sponsors:
Rep. Miller (R,10)

Animal Fighting (H.B. 5655, 5656, 5668)

Status: Judiciary Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Allows the forfeiture of real property used in the commission of animal fighting; includes animal fighting as predicate offense in the racketeering statute and revise certain in rem forfeiture provisions; declare to be a nuisance the property on which animal fighting is conducted.

Sponsors:
H.B. 5655 & 5656: Rep. John Espinoza (D, 83) 

H.B. 5668: Rep. Bert Johnson (D, 5)

Sentencing guidelines for recording or possessing recordings of animal fighting (S.B. 1121)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Establishes recording or possessing recordings of animal fighting, or an item depicting animal fighting, as a Class F felony with a maximum sentence of 4 years in prison.

Sponsors:
Sen. Barcia (D,31)

Requires payment for care of animals in cruelty cases (S.B.1122)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires persons convicted of animal cruelty to pay the costs of care for the animal and for the defendant to forfeit ownership of the animal involved the the case. Further defines specific time period for which someone convicted of animal cruelty cannot own another animal.

Sponsors:
Sen. Barcia (D,31)

Prohibitions on animal fighting/baiting paraphernalia (S.B. 1124)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits recording, owning, buying, possessing, transporting, or selling a recording of or a depiction of animal fighting or baiting.

Sponsor:
Sen. Kahn (R,32)

Minnesota

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 2/4
Adjourns 5/17

Licensing & Inspection of Puppy Mills (S.F. 7 / H.F. 253)

Status: Referred to committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires licensing and inspections for commercial dog breeders and establishes basic welfare standards.

Sponsors:
Sen. Betzold (D,51)
Rep. Tillberry (D,51-B)

Puppy Mills Defined as Agricultural Products (S.F. 198 / H.F. 137)

Status: Referred to committee

K9 PAC Position: OPPOSE

Summary: Expands the definition of agricultural products for purposes of property taxation to include puppy mills.

Sponsors:
Sen. Skogen (D,10)
Rep. Otremba (D,11B)

Animal Fighting Paraphernalia (S.F. 800 / H.F. 728)

Status: Public Safety Policy & Oversight committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits the possession of animal fighting devices or substances.

Sponsors:
Sen. Foley (D,47)
Rep. Mullery (D,58A)

Pet Protection Orders (S.F. 838 / H.F. 1396)

Status: Passed committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Allows for the inclusion of pets in domestic violence protection orders. 

Sponsors:
Sen. Pappas (D,65)
Rep. Paymar (D,64B)

Mississippi

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/5/10 - 4/4/10)

The Mississippi legislature is adjourned for the remainder of 2010.

Missouri

Status:
Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/6/10 - 5/10/10)

Animal Fighting Paraphernalia (H.B. 1689)

Status:Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits any person from possessing dog fighting paraphernalia and adds a penalty for a second or subsequent offense for persons committing acts related to dog fighting.

Sponsor:
Rep. LeVota (D,52)

Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act (H.B. 1921)

Status:Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Establishes the Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act and requires humane standards at puppy mills and limits the number of intact dogs a person can have to 50.  

Sponsor:
Rep. Low (D,39)

Animal Fighting Spectator (S.B. 664)

Status:Referred to Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Increases the penalty for being a spectator at a dog fighting event from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class D felony for a second or subsequent offense.  

Sponsor
Sen. Rupp (R,2)

Health Pet Act (S.B. 690)

Status: Referred to committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits pet dealers from selling animals who are diseased and provides remedies for a buyer.  

Sponsor
Sen. Bray (D,24)

Montana

Status:
Legislature Adjourned
There is no regular 2010 season

The legislature is not in session this year.

Nebraska

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/6/10 - 4/16/10)

Animal Fighting Paraphernalia (L.B. 252)

Status: Referred to committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits possession of animal fighting paraphernalia. 

Sponsor:
Sen. Abbie Cornett (46)

Nevada

Status:
Legislature Adjourned
There is no active 2010 season

The legislature is not in session this year.

New Hampshire

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 1/6
Adjourns 6/30

Greyhound Racing Prohibition (H.B. 630)

Status: Passed House

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: This bill prohibits live greyhound racing in New Hampshire in 2010, and allows for the retention of simulcast privileges.

Sponsor: Rep. Mary Cooney (D, 7)

Puppy Mills (H.B. 1624)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires care and treatment of dogs by breeders and limits the number of dogs a breeder can maintain to 50.  

Sponsor: Rep. Susan Kepner (D, 15)

Tethering (H.B. 1639)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Adds tethering a dog for extensive periods of time to the definition of animal cruelty.

Sponsor: Rep. Susan Kepner (D, 15)

Spay/Neuter (S.B. 365 / L.S.R. 2714)

Status: Passed Senate

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires the spay/neuter of animals at shelters.

Sponsor: Sen. Shiela Roberge (R,9) 

New Jersey

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 1/12
Adjourns 1/10/2011

Mandatory Jail Time for Animal Fighters (A. 460)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Imposes a mandatory minimum 1 year jail sentence for people convicted of providing a premises for animal fighting, possessing animals for fighting, or operating a bookkeeping scheme to manage gambling on an animal fight.

Sponsors:
Asm. Voss (D, 38) 

Animal Incapacitation Crime & Increased Penalties (A.473)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Creates the offense of animal incapacitation and increases penalties for certain animal cruelty crimes.

Sponsors:
Asm. Voss (D, 38) 

Limitations on Breeder Sales (A.474)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Limits breeders to selling 25 dogs or cats per year, prohibits the sale of a dog/cat less than 10 weeks old to a pet shop, sets standards of care for breeding facilities, requires breeders to register annually with the Department of Health, requires dealers to provide information about the health and history fo a dog/cat at time of sale, provides remedies for buyers who purchase an ill dog/cat, prohibits keeping a dog/cat in a pet shop for more than 8 consecutive weeks.

Sponsors:
Asm. Voss (D,38) 
Asm. Addiego (R,8)

Animal Fighting Penalties & Asset Forfeiture (A. 482)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits importing animals for fighting; prohibits conspiring to organize, participate in or train animals for fighting; increases penalties for animal fighting; authorizes asset or property forfeiture in cases of animal fighting; increases the civil fine for being a spectator at an animal fight.

Sponsor:
Asm. Rodriguez (D,33) 

Animal Fighting (A. 822)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Increases penalties for organizing, gambling, providing a premises and possessing animals for animal fights. 

Sponsor:
Asm. Albano (D,1)

Animal Cruelty (A. 969)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: This bill is a major restructuring and reform of the animal cruelty code. Increases penalties for aggravated animal cruelty; adds new provisions on abandonment and neglect; prohibits abusing an animal in the presence of a minor; adds new offense of "pattern of abuse or neglect"; allows court to order counseling in cases of animal cruelty; requires counseling for juveniles; allows forfeiture of animals in cruelty cases; requires forfeiture in cases of animal fighting; requires animal care workers, state employees, law enforcement to report suspected animal cruelty. 

Sponsors:
Asm. Johnson (D,37)
Asm. Chiappone (D,31)
Asm. Vainieri Huttle (D,37)
Asm. Wagner (D,38)
Asm. Voss (D,38)

Requiring Minimum Care for Animals (A. 1083)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Clarifies that failure to provide minimum care to an animal constitutes animal cruelty; defines “minimum care” to include sufficient food, access to drinkable water, access to an enclosed structure to protect against the weather and with adequate bedding, adequate protection from extreme or excessive sunlight and other weather conditions, necessary veterinary care, and reasonable access to an exercise area. 

Sponsors:
Asm. Gusciora (D,15)

Tethering (A. 1518)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits tethering between 10pm-6am; prohibits tethering for more than one hour between 6am-10pm; prohibits restraining a dog with a trolley system for more than 6 hours between 6am-10pm; prohibits tethering with a choke or prong type collar; prohibits tethering with a tether less than 10 feet long or with a weight more than 1/8 of the dog’s weight. 

Sponsors:
Asm. Chiappone (D,31)

Pet Protective Orders (A. 1633)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Authorizes a court to issue an order directing the care, custody, or control of any animal owned, possessed, leased, kept, or held by either party or a minor child residing in the household in cases of domestic violence.

Sponsor:
Asm. Wagner (D,38)

Emergency Plans for Domestic Animals (S. 253)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Expands emergency operations plans to include care for domestic animals (current law only includes farm and service animals).

Sponsors:
Sen. Van Drew (D,1)

Dogfighting and RICO (S. 539)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Establishes the new crimes of dogfighting and leader of a dogfighting network; adds the crime of leader of a dogfighting network to the list of offenses considered “racketeering activity” under New Jersey’s anti-racketeering law. 

Sponsors:
Sen. Kean (R,21)
Sen. Van Drew (D,1)

Pet Sale Accountability (S. 653)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits sale of dogs by kennels, pet shops, or other retail establishments without the name, address, and phone number of the person selling the dog (source).

Sponsor:
Sen. Ciesla (R,10)

Regulations on Care & Housing of Animals at Retailers (S. 654)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Directs the Department of Health and Senior Services to adopt rules and regulations providing for the proper care and housing of animals by kennels, pet shops, and other retail establishments that sell animals. Prohibits overcrowding and establishes penalties for the owners of aforementioned kennels, pet shops, or retailers for overcrowding.

Sponsor:
Sen. Ciesla (R,10)

Animal Cruelty (S. 648 / A.1275)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Recodifies offenses against animals under State criminal code; increases degree of crime for certain offenses.

Sponsors:
Sen. Ciesla (R,10)
Asm. Holzapfel (R,10)
Asm. Wolfe (R,10)

Protective Orders Against Animal Abusers (S. 986 / A. 1857)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Authorizes the court to issue animal protective orders against persons found guilty of abusing animals.

Sponsor:
Sen. Allen (R,7)
Asm. Gusciora (D,15)

Tethering Prohibitions (S. 1125)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits tethering of a dog for more than 3 hours per day and prohibits tethering with any other than a harness or buckle-type collar (prohibits tethering with a choke or prong collar).

Sponsor(s):
Sen. Van Drew (D,1)

Crimes & Increased Penalties for Crimes Against Service Dogs
(S.1154 / A.832)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Makes it a crime to purposely kill or maim a service dog, or interfere with a service dog's work, and increases penalties for injuring law enforcement animals.

Sponsors:
Sen. Van Drew (D,1)
Asm. Albano (D,1)

Animal Cruelty & Children (S.1161)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Establishes the criminal offense of animal cruelty in the presence of a child.

Sponsor(s):
Sen. Van Drew (D,1)

Prohibitions on Breed Discrimination by Insurers
(S. 1168 / A.248)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: This bill prohibits insurers engaged in the business of property and casualty insurance in this State, including commercial lines insurers, from utilizing underwriting guidelines which result in the declination or termination of, limit the amount or type of insurance coverage of, apply a particular rating plan to, or impose an increased premium under, a homeowners insurance policy on the basis of the type or specific breed of guide dog or service dog harbored on the insured property. 

Sponsors:
Sen. Van Drew (D,1)
Asm. Vandervalk (R,39)

Animal Hoarding (S.1170)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Creates the crime of animal hoarding and prohibits possession of a number of animals in such a quantity that the person cannot provide minimum care for all animals and such that some experience death, serious bodily injury, or adverse health consequences.

Sponsor(s):
Sen. Van Drew (D,1)

Minimum Care & Animal Cruelty (S.1182 / A.1083)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Clarifies that failure to provide minimum care to an animal constitutes animal cruelty and defines "minimum care" to include sufficient food, access to drinkable water, access to an enclosed structure to protect against the weather with adequate bedding, adequate protection from extreme or excessive sunlight and other weather conditions, necessary veterinary care, and reasonable access to an exercise area.

Sponsor(s):
Sen. Van Drew (D,1)
Asm. Albano (D,1)
Asm. Gusciora (D,15)
Asm. Milam (D,1)

Increase for Animal Cruelty Penalties (S.1193)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Revises animal cruelty offenses concerning abuse, abandonment, neglect, and improper euthanizing of animals; increases criminal and civil penalties therefor; establishes such penalties for new offenses; repeals conflicting sections of law.

Sponsor(s):
Sen. Van Drew (D,1)

Increased Penalties Related to Animal Fighting (S.1194 / A.822)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Increases penalties for organizing, gambling, providing a premises and possessing animals for animal fights.

Sponsor(s):
Sen. Van Drew (D,1)
Asm. Albano (D,1)
Asm. Milam (D,1)

New Mexico

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/19/10 - 2/18/10)

Family Violence Protection Act to Include Animal Cruelty (H.B.199)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Includes cruelty to animals in the Family Violence Protection Act.

Sponsor:
Rep. King (D,50)

Greyhound Racing (S.B. 24)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: OPPOSE

Summary: Allows dog racing simulcasting at racetracks.

Sponsor:
Sen. Carlos Cisneros (D,6)

New York

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 1/6
Adjourns 1/5/2011

Increase in Criminal Penalties for Cruelty (A.239)

Status: Passed Assembly

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Provides for an increase in criminal penalties for acts of cruelty to animals, making cruelty a class A misdemeanor or an E felony based on the level of intent, and aggravated cruelty as a class D felony.

Sponsor:
Asm. Magnarelli (D,120)

Release of Dogs for Adoption (A.600)

Status: Passed Assembly

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Allows the release of any dog/cat to another pound, shelter, society for the prevention of cruelty to animals, duly incorporated humane society, or duly incorporated animal protective association for the sole purpose of placing such dog/cat in an adoptive home, when such action is reasonably believed to improve the opportunity for adoption.

Sponsor:
Asm. Cahill (D,101)

Tethering (A. 6046)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Limits the amount of time a dog can be tethered to a maximum of six hours per day.

Sponsor:
Asm. Magee (111)

Prohibit Sale of Dogs Under Inhumane Conditions (A.B.5507)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits the sale of dogs and cats by animal facilities under inhumane conditions; regulates the operation of commercial kennels used for breeding dogs.

Sponsor:
Asm. Ball (R,99)

Restricts Sale of Puppy Mill Dogs (S.518)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Provides that pet dealers or other persons shall not sell dogs purchased or received from a puppy mill.

Sponsor:
Asm. Joseph Lentol (D, 50) & Sen. Stavisky (D, 16)

Felony for Cruelty to Over 10 Animals (S.1496)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Makes the commision of cruelty to 10 or more animals during the same criminal transaction a class E felony, which delivers a minimum sentence of 1.5 years in prison and a maximum of 2 years.

Sponsor:
Sen. DeFrancisco (R,50)

"Oreo's Law" Right of 501(c)(3) Rescues & Sanctuaries to Pull Dogs from Shelters (S. 6412a / A. 9449a)

Status: Referred to Agriculture (1/6/10)

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Makes it mandatory for shelters to hand over dogs who are scheduled to be euthanized to 501(c)(3) rescues and sanctuaries who request to take them. This is similar to a portion of Hayden's Law in California. Referred to as "Oreo's Law" because it was introduced in response to the euthanasia of a dog named Oreo by the New York ASPCA due to behavioral issues, despite a rescue group's request to take him.

K9 PAC Comment: K9 PAC enthusiastically supports the intent behind this bill. We also suggest that this bill clearly define a process for qualifying 501(c)(3) rescues and sanctuaries that are allowed to pull dogs from shelters. We worry that without a clearly defined qualification process, dogs could end up in the wrong hands.

Click here to read the language of this bill.

Felony Animal Fighting (S.B. 3926 / A. 6287a)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Makes the possession of an animal for the purpose of fighting a felony and increases penalties for being a spectator at an animal fighting event.

Sponsor:
Asm. Joseph Lentol (D, 50) & Sen. Stavisky (D, 16)

Puppy Mills (S.B. 5392 / A. 7285)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Provides that pet dealers or other persons shall not sell dogs purchased or received from a puppy mill. Defines "puppy mill" as any business which breeds dogs for sale to pet dealers and sells or transfers more than 75 dogs for the purpose of resale to others.

Sponsor:
Sen. Lanza (R,24)

North Carolina

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 5/10/2009
Adjourns 7/26/2010

Limits on Taking of Deer with Dogs (H.B. 1428)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Allows counties to limit taking deer with dogs.

Sponsor:
Rep. Lewis (R,53)

Restrictions on Dog Ownership for Convicted Criminals (H.B. 1456)

Status: In Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Provides that a person who is convicted of a felony drug offense and sentenced to community or intermediate punishment shall have imposed as a special condition of probation that the person shall not own or have a dog that weighs more than fourteen pounds either on his/her residential premises, or in a motor vehicle the person is driving for a period of six years after serving an active sentence for the drug felony.

Sponsor:
Sen. Burr (R)

Puppy Mills (S.B. 460 / H.B. 733)

Status: Passed Senate

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Regulates commercial dog breeding

Sponsor:
Sen. Don Davis (D,5)
Rep. Pat McElraft (R,13)

North Dakota

Status:
Legislature Adjourned
There is no regular 2010 season.

There is no active dog-related legislation in North Dakota.  The legislature will not be in session in 2010.

Ohio

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 1/5
Adjourns 12/31

Animal Cruelty & Pet Protection (H.B. 55)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: To increase the penalty for violation of the prohibition against cruel treatment of a companion animal by the animal's custodian or caretaker to a felony of the fifth degree.

Sponsor:
Rep. Brian Williams (D, 41)

Felony Animal Cruelty (H.B. 70)

Status: Passed House

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: To increase the penalty for violation of the prohibition against cruel treatment of a companion animal by the animal's custodian or caretaker to a felony of the fifth degree.

Sponsor:
Rep. Gerberry (D,59)

Vicious Dog Definition (H.B.79)

Status: In Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Removes pit bulls from the definition of "vicious dog" in state law.

Sponsor:
Rep. Sears (R,46)

Humane Society Agent Appointment (H.B.175)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires a person to file proof of successful completion of training with the county recorder prior to being appointed as a humane society agent and requires revocation of an appointment under certain circumstances.

Sponsor:
Rep. Gerberry (D,59)

Oklahoma

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 2/1
Adjourns 5/28

Increased Penalties for Property Violations by Hunters (H.B.1429)

Status:Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Increases to a felony hunting on another's land without permission.

Sponsor:
Rep. Lamons (D,66)

K9 PAC Comment:
K9 PAC generally refrains from taking a position on hunting issues, as we are a dog-focused PAC. However, we are specifically concerned about issues related to hound hunting. Violation of property rights is one of the most common complaints made by landowners against hound hunters. In hound hunting, packs of over 40 dogs frequently cross private land unsupervised, terrorizing families, pets, and livestock. If signed into law, H.B.1429 would help to strengthen penalties for hound hunters who violate landowners' rights.

Use of Shelter Animals in Scientific Research (H.B.1886)

Status:Pending

K9 PAC Position: OPPOSE

Summary: Clarifies that a municipal animal shelter shall provide live or dead animals that have been impounded at least 30 days, or the number of days required by local ordinance, whichever is longer, to an institution that is licensed to receive such animals for scientific, medical, or educational research.

Sponsor:
Rep. Richardson (R,56)

K9 PAC Comment:
K9 PAC does not support the use of dogs in laboratory, medical, or educational research, unless the research is mutually beneficial to the researchers and the animal. For example, we may support research if a veterinary school matches procedures in the curriculum with dogs in need of the procedure, provided that the animal is subsequently released to its owner(s) or responsible party. Spay/neuter procedures performed on shelter animals by vet school students is a good example.

Oklahoma Pet Protection Act (H.B.2209)

Status: In Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary:Provides for a cause of action against persons unlawfully inflicting physical injury or death upon an animal.

Sponsor:
Rep. Kiesel (D,28)

Commercial Pet Breeders Act (S.B. 1712)

Status:Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary:Creates the Commercial Pet Breeders Act which regulates and licenses puppy mills.

Sponsor:
Sen. Patrick Anderson (R, 19)

Oregon

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

The legislature will not be in session in 2010.

Pennsylvania

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 1/5
Adjourns 11/30

Dog Shelter Funding (H.B.369)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Establishes a county dog shelter restricted account; provides that funds from the account shall be paid to the three registered shelters that accept the highest number of dogs in the county.

Sponsor:
Rep. Siptroth (D,189)

Humane Officer Immunity (H.B. 593)

Status: In Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Grants immunity for humane society police officers performing animal cruelty investigations or enforcement.

Sponsor:
Rep. Siptroth (D,189)

Euthanasia Methods (H.B. 613)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits euthanasia by carbon monoxide chambers and firearms.

Sponsor:
Rep. William Kortz (D,38)

Extend Holding Period at Pounds/Shelters (H.B.614)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Extends the holding period for seized dogs from 48 to 96 hours; requires the reporting of seized dogs to the police department.

Sponsor:
Rep. William Kortz (D,38)

Restrictions on Dog Tethering (H.B. 1254)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits tethering a dog between 10 pm and 6 am, tethering with a tow chain, choke, pinch, or prong collar, and tethering during extreme weather.  Reguires tether to be at least 6 feet long or 5 times the length of the animal.

Sponsor:
Rep. Mario Scavello (R, 176)

Puppy Lemon Law (S.B.50)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Increases protections for dog purchasers. Allows purchaser to recover from seller if the puppy is determined to be critically ill within 14 days of purchase, or is determined to have a congenital or hereditary defect within 90 days of purchase.

Sponsor:
Sen. Greenleaf (R,12)

Shelter Spay/Neuter Requirement (S.B. 560)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires spay/neuter for dogs and cats leaving a shelter.

Sponsor:
Sen. Patrick Browne (R, 16)

Rhode Island

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 1/5
Adjourns 6/25

Restrictions on Dog Tethering (S.B.23 / H.B.6135)

Status: Passed Senate, Held in House

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Provides comprehensive prohibitions against certain types of dog tethering, including tethering for more than 10 hours in any 24 hour period, tethering with a prong or pinch collar, tethering during extreme weather, and using a tether less than 6 feet in length.

Sponsor:
Sen. John Tassoni (D,22)

Greyhound Racing
(S.B. 286)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: OPPOSE

Summary: Responding to the appeals of greyhound breeders, state lawmakers passed S.B. 286 to mandate that live greyhound racing continue, which Governor Carcieri immediately vetoed. These same greyhound breeders are asking lawmakers for an override the Governor’s veto.

Animal Cruelty Standards (S.B.454/ S.B.719/H.B.5372)

Status: Passed House, Held in Senate

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Includes willfully, intentionally, maliciously, recklessly and knowingly as the mens rea standards for the crime of Animal Cruelty.

Sponsor:
Rep. Scott Pollard (D, 30)
Sen. John Tassoni, Jr. (D, 22)
Sen. Erin Lynch (D, 31)

Required Care for Tethered Dogs (S.B.2022)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires outdoor shelter, food, and water for dogs who are tethered.

Sponsor:
Sen. Tassoni (D,22)

K9 PAC Comment:
Although we do not support dog tethering except for very short and temporary periods of time, K9 PAC supports additional requirements and standards of care for tethered dogs until the practice is prohibited.

Cruelty to Animals (S.B.2023)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Expands the definition of unnecessary cruelty to animals.

Sponsor:
Sen. Tassoni (D,22)

Dog Racing (S.B.2101)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Changes provisions and definitions relative to dog racing, effectively ending live dog racing, but permitting existing facilities to offer simulcast races.

Sponsor:
Sen. Blais (R,21)
Sen. DeVall (D,18)
Sen. Metts (D,6)
Sen. Pinga (D,9)
Sen. Raptakis (D,33)

K9 PAC Comment:
K9 PAC strongly opposes dog racing and is working toward eliminating the practice entirely. Until that time, we support any legislation that makes progress toward that goal.

Extend Intent for Animal Cruelty (S.B.2243, H.B.7426/H.B.7480)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Adds intentionally, maliciously, recklessly, and/or knowingly to the intent for animal cruelty.

Sponsor:
Sen. Lynch (D,31)
Sen. Miller (D,28)
Sen. Pinga (D,9)

Animal Abuse Registry (H.B.7768)

Status: Hearing scheduled 4/6/2010

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: The act would create an animal abuse registry and would provide for penalties for failure to register.

Sponsor:
Rep. Driver (D,39)
Rep. Gallison (D,69)
Rep. Guthrie (D,28)
Rep. MacBeth (D,52)
Rep. Michael Rice (D,35)

South Carolina

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 1/12
Adjourns 6/3

Animal Fighting (S.B.927)

Status: In Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Makes it illegal to sell an animal with the intent that the animal be used for fighting.

Sponsor:
Sen. L. Martin (R,2)

Dogs in Hunting (S.B.1027)

Status: Passed Senate / House debate scheduled for April 13, 2010

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits using dogs for hunting without the permission of the landowner.

Sponsor:
Sen. McGill (D,32)

Pet Protection Order (S.B.1135)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Includes pets in protective orders.

Sponsor:
Sen. Leventis (D,35)

Tethering (S.B.9580)

Status: In Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Makes it unlawful to knowingly or intentionally confine or restrain an animal in a cruel manner or knowingly or intentionally cause such cruel confinement or restraint.

Sponsor:
Sen. Knotts (R,23)

South Dakota

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/12/10 - 3/29/10)

Law Enforcement Animals (H.B.1187)

Status: Passed House

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits killing, injuring, or tormenting a law enforcement animal.

Sponsor:
Rep. Vanderlinde (D,15)

Tennessee

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 1/12
Adjourns 5/25

Animal Abuser Registry (S.B.182 / H.B.385)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Creates the Tennessee Animal Abuser Registration, Tracking and Verification Act.  The Tennessee Bureau of Investigations shall maintain a list of all those convicted of animal abuse in the state.

Sponsors:
Sen. Doug Jackson (D, 25)
Rep. Janis Sontany (D, 53)

Animal Fight Spectator Penalties (S.B. 537 / H.B. 627)

Status: Passed Senate

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Increases penalty for spectators at animal fight to Class A misdemeanor from Class B misdemeanor for dog fights and Class C misdemeanor for other animal fights.

Sponsors:
Sen. Bill Ketron (R, 19)
Rep. D. Maggart (R, 45)

Prohibition on Felons Owning Dangerous Dogs (S.B.555/H.B.238)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits a person convicted of a felony involving the use or attempted use of force, violence, or a deadly weapon from knowingly possessing a vicious dog.

Sponsors:
Sen. Norris (R,32)
Rep. J. Deberry (D,90)

Roadside Animal Sales (S.B. 1322 / H.B. 1433)

Status: In Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Creates Class B fine only offenses of selling live animals on public streets, parks and for business to offer live animal as prize or for promotional purposes; places safeguards on sale of animals at flea markets.

Sponsors:
Sen. Andy Berke (D, 10)
Rep. Janis Sontany (D, 53)

Abandoned Animals (S.B.1481 / H.B.1844 / H.B.1885)

Status: In Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires landlords and mortgage holders to notify animal control entity or animal shelter if vacated property contains abandoned animals.

Sponsors:
Sen. Ford (D,29)
Rep. Turner (D,51)

Increase Holding Period for Shelters (S.B.3367 / H.B.3379)

Status:Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Increases the holding period for shelters from 72 hours to 120 hours.

Sponsors:
Sen. Marrero (D,30)
Rep. Sontany (D,53)

Misdemeanor Penalties for Persons Convicted of Animal Cruelty (S.B.3475 / H.B.3942)

Status:Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Creates a Class A misdemeanor offenses for a person who was previously convicted of animal crulety, if such person subsequently violates certain prohibitions or restrictions imposed by the sentencing court.

Sponsors:
Sen. Jackson (D,25)
Rep. Lundberg (R,1)

K9 PAC Notes: This is similar to S.B.3540 listed below, but includes a broader list of prohibitions and restrictions by which a convict can be charged with a Class A misdemeanor in addition to the animal custody violation.

Misdemeanor for Animal Custody Violations by Convicts (S.B.3540 / H.B.3913)

Status:Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Creates a Class A misdemeanor offense for a person who was previously convicted of animal crulety, if such person subsequently violates an animal custody restriction imposed by the sentencing court.

Sponsors:
Sen. Ketron (R,13)
Rep. Lundberg (R,1)

Felony Cruelty to Animals - First Offense (S.B.3676)

Status:Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Changes the felony penalty for cruelty to animals from a second offense to a first offense if the animal suffers serious bodily injury or death.

Sponsor:
Sen. Burchett (R,7)

Increased Time for Owners to Claim Animals (S.B.3850 / H.B.3834)

Status:Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Increases the time an owner has to legally claima dog or cat that is not wearing a vaccination tag or other identification from three to five days before the animal may be adopted or destroyed.

Sponsors:
Sen. Kyle (D,28)
Rep. Sontany (D,53)

Texas

Status:
Legislature Adjourned
There is no regular 2010 season.

The legislature is not in session during 2010.

Utah

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/18/10 - 3/19/10)

Removes Shelter Requirement to Provide Animals for Research (H.B.107)

Status: Passed House

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Removes the requirement that shelters turn over animals for research.

Sponsor:
Sen. Seelig (D,23)

Restrictions on Euthanasia (H.B.185)

Status: Passed Committee with amendments

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits euthanasia of animals at shelters by any means other than lethal injection or carbon monoxide gas chambers. Establishes standards for the use of gas chambers.

Sponsor:
Rep. Seegmiller (D,49)

K9 PAC Comment: We do not support the use of gas chambers as a method of euthanasia. However, if signed into law, this bill would prohibit the use of other inhumane methods of killing animals. Progress is important on this issue.

Vermont

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 1/5
Adjourns 5/30

Prohibit Training of Bear-Hunting Dogs (H.115)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Allows a landowner to prohibit the training of bear-hunting dogs on posted property.

Sponsor:
Rep. Grad (D,2)

Animal Cruelty Reporting (S.248)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires social workers to report concerns about animal cruelty.

Sponsors:
Sen. Lyons (D - Chittenden)
Sen. Racine (D - Chittenden)

Requirements for surgical procedures (H.744)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires debarking, tail docking, and surgical birth procedures on dogs be performed only by licensed veterinarians and with the animal under general anesthesia.

Sponsors:
Rep. Klein (D - East Montpelier)

K9 PAC Comment: We oppose debarking, tail docking, and all other purely cosmetic procedures that have no benefit to the health and well-being of the dog. However, until such procedures are prohibited, we support any measures to ensure that they are performed humanely and only by a licensed veterinarian.

Virginia

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/13/10 - 3/13/10)

Animal Cruelty (H.B. 281)

Status: Eligible for Governor's desk

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Increases the animal cruelty penalties and requires a court to prohibit a person convicted of animal cruelty from owning animals.

Sponsor:
Del. Albo (R, 42)

Rabies Vaccination Exemption (H.B.322)

Status: Eligible for Governor's Desk

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Exempts the owner of a dog or cat from having the animal vaccinated for rabies if the veterinarian determines that the dog or cat has an underlying medical condition that is likely to result in a life-threatening condition in response to the vaccination.

Sponsor:
Del. Plum (D,36)

Veterinary Responsibilities to Report Animal Cruelty (H.B.1145)

Status: Passed House

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires any veterinarian who, in his/her professional capacity, believes or has reason to believe that an animal has been subjected to animal cruelty to immediately report the matter to an animal control officer, law enforcement officer, or representative of the State Veterinarian.

Sponsor:
Del. Scott (D, 53)

Washington

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/11/10 - 3/15/10)

Restrictions on Dog Tethering (H.B. 2387)

Status:Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Prohibits leaving a dog outside and unattended by use of a restraint such as a tether, chain, rope, cord, or other device used to tie an animal to a running cable or pulley system or to a stationary object for more than 1 hour, during extreme weather, or when the tether restricts access to food, water, or restricts the animals ability to sit, stand, or lay comfortably. 

Sponsor:
Rep. Campbell (R,2)

Protect Dogs Running at Large (S.B.5200)

Status: Passed Senate

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Removes the requirement for law enforcement to kill dogs running at large. 

Sponsor:
Sen. Brandland (R,42)

Establishment of a Spay/Neuter Fund (S.B. 5329 / H.B. 1406)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Creates a fund to provide spay/neuter services for low-income animal owners.

Sponsors:
Rep. Williams (D,22)
Sen. Pridemore (D,49)

Pets in Disasters (SB 5337)

Status: Passed Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires the preparation of an animal emergency planning guidance for local jurisdictions that provides for the evacuation, transportation, and temporary sheltering of pets and service animals during a major disaster or an emergency.

Sponsor:
Sen. Jacobsen (D,46)

Bans Pet Ownership for Individuals Convicted of Animal Cruelty (S.B.5790)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Extends the ban on future ownership of an animal for certain types of animal cruelty convictions.

Sponsor:
Sen. Carrell (R,28)

Killing of Dogs that Kill a Domestic Animal (S.B.5870)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Removes the requirement that any owner whose dog kills a domestic animal must euthanize their dog.

Sponsor:
Sen. Hargrove (D,24)

West Virginia

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(1/13/10 - 3/14/10)

Restrictions for Commercial Dog Breeders (H.B.4333)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Requires commercial dog breeders to have a county permit; prohibits breeding female dogs younger than 18 months and older than 8 years, and only after certification by a vet; establishes basic animal welfare standards for commercial dog breeders; authorizes inspections for commercial dog breeders; prohibits commercial dog breeders from possessing more than 50 breeding dogs.

Sponsor:
Del. Mahan (D,27)

Felony Animal Fighting (S.B.208 / H.B.4216)

Status: Passed Committee

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Makes it a felony to wager on an animal fight; makes it a felony to conduct, finance, manage, supervise, direct, lease or own all or a part of a business or premises involving betting or wagering on an animal fighting venture with the knowledge that the betting or wagering is occurring.

Sponsor:
Sen. Kessler (D,2)
Del. Overington (R,55)

Spay/Neuter Tax Deduction (S.B. 231)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Provides a personal income tax deduction for people who have their dog or cat spayed or neutered. 

Sponsor:
Sen. William Laird (D, 11)

Animal Fighting Felonies (S.B.380)

Status: Passed Senate

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Makes cockfighting a felony; makes it a felony to provide a premises for animal fighting, to possess animals for fighting, and possess animal fighting paraphernalia; requires forfeiture of animals for people convicted of animal fighting.

Sponsor:
Sen. Kessler (D,2)

Pets in Protective Orders (S.B.490 / H.B.4471)

Status: Passed Senate

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Allows courts to include protections for animals in protective orders in cases of domestic violence.

Sponsors:
Sen. Kessler (D,2)
Del. Brown (D,30)

Wisconsin

Status:
Legislature In Session

Legislative Session:
Convened 1/19
Adjourns 5/26

Increased Penalties for Animal Cruelty (S.B.555 / A.747)

Status: Pending

K9 PAC Position: Support

Summary: Increases penalties for animal cruelty if done in the presence of a child; makes it illegal to cause a child to mistreat an animal; allows courts to include protections for animals in domestic violence protective orders.

Sponsors:
Sen. Jauch (D,25)
Asm. Milroy (D,73)

Wyoming

Status:
Legislature Adjourned

Legislative Session:
(2/8/10 - 3/5/10)

There is no active dog-related legislation in Wyoming at this time. The legislature has adjourned until 2011.