Feburary 2009

Please take the time to read listed bills in full.  Because of the length of bills, we provide only a basic summary AND links for all bills to enable you quick access.  Take advantage of them.  We also provide you with links to those organizations that have quick access to full committee email addresses and talking points - take advantage of them.

 

FEDERAL

HR 669 - (1/26/09) - The bill is designed to prevent the introduction and establishment in the United States of nonnative wildlife species that may harm the economy, the environment, human health or native wildlife. H.R. 669 would require the federal government to assess the risk of nonnative wildlife species proposed for importation and, with public input, decide if the importation of these animals should be allowed or prohibited. The Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International welcomed the introduction yesterday of the Nonnative Wildlife Invasion Prevention Act (H.R. 669) in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo (D-Guam)

 

 

 

ALABAMA

HB206 - The bill would require owners who knows or should know that his or her dog is dangerous, owners required to post warning sign on property, penalties

Mobile - (1/27/09) - Brown’s greatest concern, as was presented to the Mobile City Council, is had the dog’s timing been different, her 3-month-old and 3-year-old grandchildren could have been the subjects of the mauling. Mobile City Council is taking Brown’s concerns seriously, and breed specific legislation (BSL) regarding pit bulls may soon be in the works. Council President Reggie Copeland explained he has already taken interest in this topic. Presently, city attorney Jim Rossler is reviewing Brown’s complaints and examining other cities’ approaches regarding BSL. Undoubtedly he will discover that Orange Beach has a vicious animal ordinance in place, although, as Copeland firmly explained, Mobile is targeting pit bulls exclusively. Irondale, Ala. has similar regulations, although, Irondale’s legislation is specific to pit bulls. This legislation, which has the potential to be adopted in Mobile, includes registering pit bulls or any mix that includes pit bull. Those who were both residents and pit bull owners in Irondale before this legislation was drafted in 1997 enjoy a grandfather clause that asked them to register their dog and abide by specific regulations. Those who moved to Irondale after the legislation was passed aren’t allowed to own pit bulls at all. Copeland guarantees any legislation that may come as a result of the investigations currently underway and the rest of the process will be a very public process involving the Public Safety Committee, pit bull owners and all concerned citizens.For those who may not be able to present their cases personally, Brown set up an e-mail, pitbulltruth@yahoo.com, to serve as an open forum on pit bull related issues.

 

ARKANSAS

HB1046 - Representative Roy Ragland, Chair of the Agriculture, Forestry, and Economic
Development committee of the Arkansas State House of Representatives has introduced a bill to protect the rights of animal owners and prohibit any state, city, county, or private organization from requiring animal owners to register in any animal identification system. The bill has been referred to the committee on Agriculture, Forestry, and Economic Development. The purpose of the Freedom to Farm Act is to encourage and protect animal ownership, animals, home food production, direct farm-to-consumer sales, hobby production, off-farm commercial sales, animal exhibition, and businesses that serve animal owners. 

SB77 - AN ACT CONCERNING AGGRAVATED CRUELTY TO DOGS, CATS, AND HORSES AND RELATED OFFENSES AND CONCERNING ANIMAL MANAGEMENT PRACTICES - DELIVERED TO GOVERNOR

Judsonia - proposed ordinance regulates the keeping of vicious animals within the city limits, sets the procedures for deeming an animal vicious, bans certain breeds of dogs, and prescribes the penalties for violations. Banned breeds of dogs include the American Pit Bull Terrier, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, any dog whose sire or dame is a banned breed, any dog whose owner defines the dog as being a banned breed, and dog with substantial conformation of a banned breed, and any dog that is recognized as a “pit bull.”

Little Rock - (2/1/09) - Due to inclement weather, the Little Rock Animal Services Advisory Board has postponed the January 28 public hearing regarding proposed changes to City ordinances pertaining to domestic cats. The hearing will now be on February 4, from 6:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. It will be at the Adult Leisure Center, 6401 West 12th Street. The Animal Services Advisory Board is examining proposed ordinance changes which would include both mandatory sterilization and micro-chipping of all free-roaming cats. This is the second of two hearings. The first public hearing was on January 14.
As was the case with the Potentially Dangerous Breed Ordinance public hearings, these will be limited-forum hearings with comment time reserved only for Little Rock citizens. For more information on the proposed changes, the public is encouraged to call Little Rock Animal Services at 501-376-3067. Copies of the proposed changes are available for review at the Animal Village; copies are also available via email.

Little Rock - (2/16/09) - Gov. Mike Beebe has signed into law a bill that changes how often dogs and cats need to be vaccinated for rabies. The bill, signed Monday, gives the Arkansas Department of Health the authority to decide how often the vaccinations should occur. Before, pet owners were required to vaccinate their cats and dogs annually. Rep. Pam Adcock, D-Little Rock who sponsored the legislation, says newer vaccines are effective for three years. The bill was part of the health department's legislative package for this session.

 

CALIFORNIA

AB241 - An act to add Section 597.8 to the Penal Code, relating to animals. Bill would make it a misdemeanor for an individual or business that buys or sells dogs or cats to have more than a combined total of 50 dogs and cats with intact sexual organs, as specified. The bill would authorize certain officers to investigate a violation of that provision, as provided, and to lawfully take possession of an animal kept in violation of that provision, as specified. Because this bill would create a new crime, it would impose a state-mandated local program.

AB242 - An act to amend Section 597.5 of the Penal Code, relating to crimes. Bill would increase the penalties for these crimes by providing instead that the crime of dog fighting is a felony punishable by imprisonment in a state prison for 2, 3, or 4 years and a specified fine, and the crime of being a spectator at a dog fight is a felony punishable by imprisonment in the state prison for 16 months, or 2 or 3 years

AB243 - An act relating to animal abuse. Bill would provide that upon the conviction of a person charged with animal abuse, as specified, the court shall be required to enter an order enjoining the person from owning, possessing, maintaining, having custody of, residing with, or caring for any animal for specified periods of time.

SB135 - An act to amend Section 597n of the Penal Code, relating to animal abuse. Bill would likewise prohibit the docking of cattle.

Lancaster - (1/27/09) Despite fierce criticism, Lancaster city officials have unanimously adopted an ordinance that would impose stiff penalties for owners of “potentially dangerous” and “vicious” dogs. The law targets dogs such as pit bulls and Rottweilers -- breeds that law enforcement officials say are favored by gang members, who often use them to terrorize people.  The ordinance would also require the spaying and neutering of all varieties of pit bulls and Rottweilers, including mutts that have "predominant physical characteristics" of those breeds. The measure will go into effect in 30 days.

 

Riverside - (1/27/09) - County supervisors on Tuesday tweaked a controversial spay-neuter ordinance passed earlier this month, voting to exempt recognized dog and cat breeders from the requirements.
Supervisors also increased to three the number of complaints before the county Department of Animal Services can revoke or deny a license for an "intact" dog ---- one that is not spayed or neutered. As originally worded, the ordinance required two such complaints. The ordinance goes into effect March 1, but for 90 days officers only will give warnings.

 

San Clemente - City Council to set limits on pets and livestock

 

Ukiah - (2/5/09) - During its regular meeting Wednesday evening, the Ukiah City Council decided to split the difference on the hotly-debated pet ordinance wording change by ordering City Attorney David Rapport to draft a revised ordinance that would state the council's intent and replace "owner" with "guardian/owner."  Council member Mari Rodin said she wanted to know Rapport's opinion on the idea of the switch being the opening shot in a war on pet-owner rights. "One of the arguments against this proposal is that this would open the floodgates to increasing animal rights - that this is just one step closer to changing our relationship with animals." Rapport said he didn't see how this particular case would fit into that scheme. Thomas said he would prefer an addition of the term guardian' and not the deletion of owner.' "I think that that would preserve some measure of continuity," he said. Mayor Phil Baldwin said the council had the ability to modify the wording if it turned out to be a misstep. Rodin introduced a motion to direct staff to draft a new ordinance that changed the wording from "owner" to "owner/guardian" and add a section outlining the intent of the change. The motion passed by a 3-2 vote, with Councilmembers Mary Anne Landis and Doug Crane dissenting.

 

 

COLORADO

 

SB1127 - UPDATE - Defeated in Committee

 

 

 

CONNECTICUT

 

Stratford - (1/27/09) - It took more than a decade for animal-rights activists to convince the Town Council to approve a site for a new animal shelter to replace the 50-year-old, cramped facility on Frog Pond Lane. Now, only two weeks after it approved the new shelter site the council approved a request Monday by activists and Animal Control Officer Rachel Solveira to restore six kennels cut from the original design. The restored kennels, which will now bring the total to 30, will add about $160,000 to the project, raising the estimated cost to about $2.89 million, said Town Engineer John Casey. He said the added kennels will also increase the shelter's total square footage from 7,600 to about 8,400. The new shelter, which will be built on town-owned property behind Frank Deluca Hall of Fame Field on Main Street, will be more than three times the size of the existing facility.
 

DELAWARE

Wilmington - City mulls ban on aggressive dog breeds

 

DISTRICT OF COLIMBIA

Washington - Councilman Jim Graham proposed ordinance to ban pit bulls. Year after year, Ward 1 D.C. Councilman Jim Graham has seen his attempt to ban fireworks fizzle, his try to bar pit bulls chewed up by colleagues. The pit bull measure bars the possession and sale of the breed in the District. It requires current owners to register their pets with animal control, sterilize the dogs and tag them for quick identification. Any pit bull that doesn’t meet those requirements must be impounded and euthanized

 

FLORIDA

HB189 - AN ACT relating to dangerous dogs; removing of breed -specific local government regulation of dangerous dogs

HB451 - Sterilization of Dogs and Cats: Requires sterilization of dogs & cats of specified age; provides exceptions; authorizes county or municipality to enact ordinances requiring licensure of dogs & cats that are not sterilized; requires DOACS to adopt rules for approval of breed registration organizations; provides penalties; conforms requirements for sterilization of dogs & cats in animal shelters & animal control agencies to changes made by act; deletes provision extending time for sterilization; authorizes county & municipal ordinances relating to sterilization of animals; authorizes county or municipality to collect surcharge on civil penalties.

SB992 - AN ACT relating to the sterilization of dogs and cats, allows the release of a dog or cat from an animal shelter operated by an animal control agency, humane society, or animal rescue group without compliance with the requirement for sterilization if a licensed veterinarian certifies that the dog or cat has a medical condition that would be substantially aggravated by such procedure or the procedure would likely cause the death of the dog or cat, etc.

Holly Hill - proposed ordinance -- requiring dogs and cats in the city to be  spayed or neutered -- nearly mirrored a Volusia County ordinance. Both provide for exemptions for "unaltered animals" such as show dogs, service animals and police dogs. In Volusia County, the unaltered animal permit is valid for the life of the animal. In Holly Hill, the proposed ordinance called for a $25 annual permit. But Tuesday (02/10/09) Holly Hill commissioners defeated on first reading an ordinance that would follow that trend

 

GEORGIA

Gwinnett County - (1/27/09) - Gwinnett's County Attorney's office has taken a new approach in trying to sell it's latest version of the county's "get tough" approach on dog barking. The new ordinance proposal has moved "nuisance barking" out of section 10-33 Public Nuisance Animals and created an new section 10-51 "Duty of animal owners to be responsible owners. It reads:
Sec 10-51 Duty of animal owners to be responsible owners.
a) It shall be the duty of every owner or custodian of any animal to exercise reasonable care and take all the necessary steps and precautions to protect other people, property, and animals from injuries or damage which might result from their animals's behavior.
Similar to the current ordinance the county defines ordinance violations as "ANY vocalizations which are plainly audible to a person of ordinary hearing ability not located on same property as the animal or animals making such vocalizations for more then fifteen minutes without interruption" or "more then
thirty minutes if the vocalization is intermittent." The new twist is the county solicitor Allison Cauthon's explanation that the county defines intermittent barking to be any "vocalization of any animal or animals for a continuing period of thirty seconds or more on five or more occasions in any thirty minute period." What this means for a typical owner of three dogs is if those three dogs
barked for thirty seconds, stopped and then resumed barking for another thirty seconds the pet owner would be in violation of the ordinance, even if that barking was only dogs playfully chasing down local squirrels. The pet owner could face up to three terms of six months jail time, up to $3,000 in fines and court ordered disposal of all three family dogs even for an innocuous first offense. There is nothing in this ordinance that would prohibit people from provoking dogs into barking by either making deliberate bursts of noise, rattling a fence or pointing a video camera or cell phone at one's property and filming that outburst as evidence of barking violation. Nor does the ordinance allow dogs to bark or communicate with other animals in near proximity to your property. Barking laws in Gwinnett are the only ordinance violation that relies solely on citizen driven complaints that are typically never verified. It remains unclear what role animal control holds in investigating these violations or if an investigation is even required. Even though these charges carry potential jail time jury trials are not allowed under recorder's court rules. Animal owners are denied the same due process rights that are routinely provided thugs and criminals. CONTACT INFORMATION AT LINK.

 

HAWAII

SB79 - A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO dogs Description: Prohibits ownership, possession, or sale of pit bulls.  No grandfather clause  CONTACT INFORMATION - CLICK HERE.

 

ILLINOIS

**NOTE: Click HERE to access SAOVA one stop emailing to committees for Illinois bills being heard on 2/19/09 **

HB0198 - AN ACT concerning dog breeders. 

SB53 - AN ACT concerning dog breeders.  Creates the Dog Breeder License Act.

SB139 - Animals-Torture-Not Dock/Crop - Introduced by Sen. Terry Link (D, 30) SB 139 would remove the ability for veterinarians to crop ears or dock tails of any animal unless a medical reason exists.
Amends the Humane Care for Animals Act. Limits the situations when a person could dock an animal's tail or crop its ears without violating the Act's prohibition against "animal torture". Establishes that the following is not "animal torture": (i) tail docking performed by an Illinois licensed veterinarian for a medical reason (now, just "tail docking") or (ii) ear cropping performed by an Illinois licensed veterinarian for a medical reason (now, just "ear cropping"). Effective immediately.

SB1336 - Amends the Humane Care for Animals Act. Provides that no person may dock or hire any other person to dock the tail of any living member of the bovine species. Provides that any person who violates this provision is guilty of a Class C misdemeanor and must pay a fine not to exceed $500. Authorizes licensed veterinarians to dock tails if doing so is necessary to protect the health of the animal. Defines "dock".

SB1337 - Amends the Humane Care for Animals Act. Prohibits a person from tethering or confining any covered animal, on a farm, for all or the majority of any day, in a manner that prevents the animal from (i) lying down, standing up, and fully extending his or her limbs or (ii) turning around freely. Creates exemptions from this requirement for (i) scientific or agricultural research; (ii) examination, testing, individual treatment, or operation for veterinary purposes; (iii) transportation; and (iv) rodeo exhibitions, State or county fair exhibitions, 4-H programs, and similar exhibitions.

Danville - (1/27/09) - Concerned neighbors have been working for months on a new dog ordinance and will turn over their proposal tonight to the public services committee. Some of the changes include fines for attacks and requiring owners to carry insurance in case their dog hurts someone, or another dog. The new draft also clears up some definitions of what exactly a makes a dog vicious or dangerous. If it's approved tonight, the measure will go before the full council next Tuesday. A yes vote there means it would be a law ten days after that.

 

INDIANA

HB1468 - A BILL FOR AN ACT to amend the Indiana Code concerning criminal law and procedure.  Animal cruelty and commercial dog breeders. Authorizes the court, as a condition of bail or parole, or the parole board, as a condition of parole, to prohibit a person from owning, harboring, or training an animal, and, if the person is prohibited from having direct or indirect contact with an individual, from having direct or indirect contact with any animal belonging to the individual. Establishes commercial dog breeder regulations including: (1) requiring commercial dog breeders to register with the state board of animal health; and (2) establishing standards for premises where dogs are kept and conditions in which dogs are kept. Requires commercial dog breeders to refund the purchase price of a dog sold by the breeder to a purchaser under certain circumstances. Requires pet dealers to maintain certain records Provides that a veterinarian or registered veterinary technician may report a suspected incident of animal cruelty under the law concerning offenses relating to animals to a law enforcement officer. Provides that a person neglects an animal if the person fails to provide reasonable medical care for an animal's injury or illness. Broadens the definition of torturing an animal by administering poison by applying the definition to all vertebrate animals. (Current law applies only to dogs or cats.) Makes abandoning or neglecting an animal a Class A misdemeanor, and enhances the penalty to a Class D felony if the person has a prior conviction. Makes it killing a domestic animal, a Class A misdemeanor, for a person to knowingly or intentionally kill a domestic animal without the consent of the owner of the domestic animal. Makes the offense a Class D felony if the person knew or reasonably should have known the domestic animal was located on real property that was owned by: (1) the owner of the domestic animal; or (2) a person who keeps domestic animals on the real property for the purpose of breeding, boarding, or training domestic animals. UPDATE - (2/17/09) -

02/17/2009	H		Second reading: amended, ordered engrossed
02/17/2009	H		Amendment 1 (Walorski), prevailed; Voice Vote
02/17/2009	H		Amendment 10 (Messmer), failed; Voice Vote
02/17/2009	H		Amendment 6 (Foley), failed; Voice Vote
02/17/2009	H		Amendment 5 (Foley), failed; Voice Vote
02/17/2009	H		Amendment 7 (Messmer), failed; Division of the House: Yeas 47, Nays 51

HB1585 - Deer hunting bag limits. Requires the director of the department of natural resources to increase the seasonal bag limit for deer in the 30 counties that had the highest number of collisions involving deer and motor vehicles during the previous year. Effective: July 1, 2009. A BILL FOR AN ACT to amend the Indiana Code concerning natural and cultural resources. 

HB1683 - A BILL FOR AN ACT to amend the Indiana Code concerning natural and cultural resources. Game preserve licenses. Provides for the licensing and operation of game preserves in which privately owned cervidae and game birds may be hunted. Provides for the auctioning of ten licenses to operate game preserves and establishes $50,000 as the minimum bid for a license.

SB222 - A BILL FOR AN ACT to amend the Indiana Code concerning criminal law and procedure. Killing a domestic animal. Makes killing a domestic animal, a Class D felony, for a person to knowingly or intentionally kill a domestic animal without the consent of the owner of the domestic animal.

SB546 - A BILL FOR AN ACT to amend the Indiana Code concerning natural and cultural resources and to make an appropriation. Removes the authority of a person with a federal permit to take or possess a migratory bird or the nest, eggs, or increase of a migratory bird during the closed season. Adds mourning doves to the list of game birds that require a habitat restoration stamp to hunt. Establishes nonresident youth hunting and trapping licenses.

SB1202 - A BILL FOR AN ACT to amend the Indiana Code concerning criminal law and procedure. Care of animals. Provides that a person neglects an animal for purposes of the animal cruelty statute if the person leaves the animal outside. 

Indianapolis - (2/11/09) -  

State lawmakers are cracking down on puppy mills in the state of Indiana. A House committee passed an animal cruelty bill Wednesday. Some dog owners were inside the packed hearing room. They heard debate over the care and neglect of puppies. Rep. Linda Lawson from Hammond outlined how her bill would go after puppy mills and not legitimate dog breeders. "What we want to establish is a law that takes away the rights of people to use animals like a crash crop. It is not corn or soybeans. It's a living thing that should not be brought into this world just so it can make a few dollars for someone or two hundred of whatever it is," said Lawson. The bill passed out of committee 11-0 and is now headed to the full House.

Portage- UPDATE: because of Major changes the ordinance will take some  time. A vicious dog will be determined by its actions not its breed, and there is currently a leash requirement. Information from City Councilman Brendan Clancy. For addition information and updates please contact Councilman Clancy

 

IOWA

Lisbon City - Mt. Vernon - (1/21/09) - The City of Lisbon has taken the first formal step for a revised animal protection and control ordinance. The Lisbon City Council voted 4-1 Jan. 14 in favor of the first reading of a revised ordinance. Two more readings and publication are needed to make it law. Council member Randy Roberts cast the lone “no” vote. When asked later by council member Doug Kamberling why he disapproved of the first reading, Roberts responded, “the public didn’t know what was going on.”  The revised ordinance does not limit the number of animals in private homes, as an earlier draft had done. If the county’s department of health considers animals to be a health hazard, they will intervene. Some additions are a broader definition of dangerous animals that includes the phrase “any animal declared dangerous by council;” a largely expanded definition of vicious animals; and expansion of a section relating to the prohibition of animals at large. Invisible fences are not considered restraints in the revision. Fines for animals found to be at large are added. Another proposed addition is that seizure and impoundment would occur by order of the mayor or police chief. If apprehended, animals deemed vicious will be taken to the Cedar Valley Humane Society for observance at the owners’ expense for a period of 10 days. UPDATE: (1/28/09) -  Originally set to focus solely on the budget, a Lisbon City Council work session last week resulted in the finalization of a new animal control ordinance. Council members approved the suspension of rules related to setting law, so as to quickly put new animal-related measures into place. Three readings of an ordinance and publication in a newspaper of record are required before it becomes law. Typically, the readings are done at three separate readings, to give the public opportunity to review a change. The first reading of a new animal control ordinance was done at the council’s Jan. 14 meeting. The council later voted 5-0 to pass the second reading of the ordinance, and 4-1, with Roberts dissenting, to waive the third reading. The vote being a super majority because all council members were present, the reading was waived and final passage of the revised animal ordinance was then approved 5-0.

 

KANSAS

HCR 5004 - House Concurrent Resolution horse slaughter bill

Overland Park - (2/2/09) - The Overland Park City Council is poised to pass an ordinance tonight allowing the city to trap dangerous coyotes.

Wichita - (1/28/09) - The upshot of Tuesday's workshop meeting was that the council agreed to discuss a new dog ordinance in a month or so, possibly with new restrictions on pit bulls and owners. Options they will consider: banning pit bulls (though even environmental services director Kay Johnson said she didn't favor that); requiring owners to spay or neuter and implant microchips in pit bulls, with an exception for licensed breeders; or changing nothing. After the meeting, Johnson said she'd try to have a full animal ordinance prepared for consideration in a month, and that she will make sure that people who care about animals will have plenty of opportunity to comment. The city will set up a dedicated e-mail address for comments about animal issues: animalcode2009@wichita.gov.

 

 

KENTUCKY

 

No report for Kentucky

 

 

 

LOUISIANA

 

Bastrop - a proposed ordinance would require owners to register a dangerous dog and keep insurance against losses caused by the dog.

 

 

 

MARYLAND

 

Annapolis - (2/12/09) - So-called puppy mills could soon fall under tougher new regulations in the state of Maryland. Substandard dog breeding kennels where dogs are overbred in terrible conditions are commonly called puppy mills. State legislators are currently hearing from those who say some breeding operators need to do more for the animals, as well as those who say proposed new rules are too much regulation. The Humane Society of the United States said recent crackdowns on puppy mills could push more operations into Maryland. The organization is backing legislation that would set up basic guidelines to cover large-scale breeding operations.

 

HB495/SB318 - AN ACT concerning Criminal Law - Crimes Relating to Animals - Limitations on Possession of Breeding Dogs. Prohibiting a person from owning, possessing, controlling, or otherwise having custody of more than 50 breeding dogs over the age of 4 months at any time; establishing enclosure size and exercise requirements to be met by a person owning, possessing, controlling, or otherwise having custody of more than 10 breeding dogs over the age of 4 months 

 

SB318/HB495 - AN ACT concerning Criminal Law - Crimes Relating to Animals - Limitations on Possession of Breeding Dogs. Prohibiting a person from owning, possessing, controlling, or otherwise having custody of more than 50 breeding dogs over the age of 4 months at any time; establishing enclosure size and exercise requirements to be met by a person owning, possessing, controlling, or otherwise having custody of more than 10 breeding dogs over the age of 4 months **NOTE:  Hearing on this bill - Feb 18th at 12:30pm in Annapolis Md. If anyone is nearby and can attend this meeting please come and assist.  For more info, go to the Maryland Dog Federation website - or just CLICK HERE !! **

 

 

MASSACHUSETTS

 

Boston - (2/4/09) - A 15 year-old Bostonian  has emerged as the surprise driving force behind a bill to ban the cruel practice of surgically silencing cats & dogs by removing their vocal cords. Now his proposed law has won the backing of Democratic House Majority Whip Lida E. Harkins and Republican Sen. Scott P. Brown. If successful, the bill would make devocalization illegal in Massachusetts unless a licensed state veterinarian or Boston police commissioner deemed that the operation was a medical necessity. If enacted, it will be known as Logan’s Law

 

Chicopee - (2/2/09) -  The mayor and the Ward 9 alderman will host a Fairview neighborhood meeting on Monday, and the Board of Aldermen is scheduled to meet on Tuesday. The Fairview meeting will take place at 6 p.m. in the Castle of Knights on Memorial Drive. Mayor Michael D. Bissonnette and Ward 9 Alderman Ronald R. Belair will be there, along with department heads and representatives from the Westover Job Corps. Aldermen will meet on Tuesday at 7:15 p.m. in City Hall, following a briefing by the mayor at 6:30. The board will take a first reading of a proposed ordinance change that would help City Clerk Keith W. Rattell in his efforts to license dogs. The issue will be referred to the Ordinance Committee for a public hearing. Rattell has said that out of the approximately 5,000 dogs in the city in 2007, only 1,758 were licensed. People who do not license their canines can be fined $25 per dog, per year. Rattell is suggesting an amnesty program to encourage owners to license their dogs. In return, the city would forgive past fees they owe.

 

 

 

MICHIGAN

 

Mount Clemons - (2/9/09) - Dog owners in Mount Clemens are not so happy with the city's new animal ordinance. One provision allows animal control officers to go into a pet owner's home to inspect the pet. Another requires that a pet be on a leash when outside their yard. The ordinance also prohibits "odor that fouls the air." City officials are encouraging pet owners to read up on the new animal ordinance and give input. The city commission will delay final approval until residents can review it.
Visit www.cityofmountclemens.com for more information.

 

Westland - currently labels "pit bulls" as vicious and places restrictions against them.  The city council meeting TONIGHT (Monday, 2/2/09) to repeal breed specific legislation there. Council to discuss tweak to vicious dog ordinance. The City Council is set to introduce an amendment to the city's vicious dog ordinance tonight, dropping "pit bulls" from the legislation. Instead the amendment would require that owners register and license vicious dogs.

 

 

MINNESOTA

SF0007 - A bill for an act relating to animals; providing standards of care for dog and cat breeders; authorizing rulemaking; providing criminal penalties; appropriating money; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 347.

SF0198 - A bill for an act relating to taxation; expanding definition of agricultural products for purposes of property taxation;amending Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 273.13, subdivision 23. 

SF0201 - A bill for an act relating to animals; providing for registration and standards of care for dog and cat breeders; imposing penalties;proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 347.

SF0309 - A bill for an act relating to dogs; requiring certain dog owners to take responsible dog owner classes and pass certain tests; requiring maintenance of a database; proposing  coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 347.

HF0115 - A bill for an act relating to dogs; requiring certain dog owners to take responsible dog owner classes and pass certain tests; requiring maintenance of a database; proposing  coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 347.

HF0137- A bill for an act relating to taxation; expanding definition of agricultural products for purposes of property taxation;amending Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 273.13, subdivision 23.

HF0253 - A bill for an act relating to animals; providing standards of care for dog and cat breeders; authorizing rulemaking; providing criminal penalties; appropriating money; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 347.

HF0297 - A bill for an act relating to dogs; creating a regional dog park permit and matching grant program in the Twin Cities metropolitan area

HF573 - A bill for an act relating to companion animals; creating a required permit for certain dog and cat breeders

HF630 - A bill for an act relating to animals; eliminating a restriction on assistance by counties and cities to certain societies for the prevention of cruelty to animals

Saint Paul - (1/28/09) - Because Minnesota has some of the largest pet-breeding facilities in the nation, animal rights advocates are pushing for state oversight. Unlike about half the states in the nation, there is none. One bill, presented by Sen. Don Betzold, DFL-Fridley, and supported by many animal rights advocates, requires annual inspections and certification by the Minnesota Board of Animal Health. One of the biggest bones to pick was its range: Breeders with six breeding females or more would be affected. Another bill, presented by Sen. Steve Dille, R-Dassel, carrying larger support from breeders, would require no mandatory inspections. Breeders would be required to register with a local agency every four years, and inspections would be complaint-based, unless a county decided otherwise. A third bill, similar to Betzold's, is anticipated in coming weeks. Drafted by Mike Fry, director of the Animal Ark no-kill shelter in Hastings, the bill would affect only breeders who own 40 dogs or more. Fry said he's met with dozens of smaller breeders and written something they would support. In the end, the Betzold bill was tabled; Dille never called for a vote.

West Saint Paul - proposed ordinance will reflects recent changes to state laws regarding animals and dangerous dogs, including more restrictive requirements for dangerous dog owners. Will require renters with potentially dangerous or dangerous dogs to notify the property owner that a dangerous dog will be living on the premises.

MISSISSIPPI

No Report for Mississippi

 

MISSOURI

Branson - (1/28/09) - Branson aldermen talked about animal licensing at length during their recent study session. The board is considering a change in the city ordinance regarding animal control which would eliminate the need for cat and dog owners to obtain an annual $15 pet license. However, pet owners would still be required to have their dogs and cats vaccinated against rabies. City Administrator Dean Kruithoff said it costs more money to administer pet licenses than the revenue coming in. The proposed amendment to the ordinance would also require that pet owners must ensure the animal is always wearing a collar with the rabies tag unless the animal has been equipped with a chip. Following rewriting by the city attorney’s office, the pet licensing bill will most likely be presented to aldermen for passage in late February.

 

MONTANA

SB221 - A BILL FOR AN ACT ENTITLED: "AN ACT INCLUDING COMPANION ANIMAL HOARDING IN THE OFFENSE OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS; PROVIDING THAT A PERSON CONVICTED OF COMPANION ANIMAL HOARDING

SB289 - A BILL FOR AN ACT ENTITLED: "AN ACT INCLUDING HARASSING, KILLING, OR INJURING POULTRY AS A BASIS FOR DECLARING A DOG A PUBLIC NUISANCE AND KILLING IT; REQUIRING THE OWNER OF A DOG HARASSING, KILLING, OR INJURING POULTRY TO BE CHARGED WITH A MISDEMEANOR  Reading Indefinitely Postponed - Probably DEAD

Billings - (2/12/09) - After numerous attempts to address puppy mills in Montana, state lawmakers will consider a bill that would establish new health standards for dogs. House Bill No. 548 is known as the Puppy Provider Bill. It would require breeders, pet shops and any other facilities that sell dogs to be subject to an annual inspection. The Humane Society's Dave Pauli supports the bill.

Billings - (2/16/09) - Sen. Mitch Tropila, D-Great Falls, introduced a bill that would add hoarding to the state's list of animal cruelty offenses, and Rep. Dave McAlpin, D-Missoula, is introducing a bill that would require commercial breeders - those with 20 or more adult dogs - to register with the state and submit to annual surprise inspections. Registration would come with a $415 biannual fee to cover the cost of inspections. "We're not going after the mom-and-pop breeders here," McAlpin said. "We're going after the large commercial breeders." Regulations for dog kennels and licensing vary by county and community. McAlpin's bill does not aim to replace any local regulations but adds a new layer of oversight. In Billings, anyone who owns more than four dogs or four cats is required to have a permit, which allows the city to inspect the animals' care in cases where abuse may be suspected. The permit is $30 and requires a license for each dog. Klein said about 50 city residents have permits, and no problems with questionable breeders have been reported in Billings.

 

NEBRASKA

LB494 - AN ACT relating to dangerous dog laws in Nebraska

 

NEVADA

AB172 - AN ACT relating to licence plates; requiring certain charitable organizations which receive proceeds from special license plates to provide additional organizational information annually to certain entities. Referred to Committee on Transportation

SB132 - AN ACT relating to animals; preventing a person from restraining a dog on a certain manner; requiring state emergency management plan and certain plans for emergency operations to include provisions concerning the evacuation, transporting and sheltering of service animals during disaster or evacuation; providing a penalty; and providing other matter properly relating thereto:  Referred to Committee on Natural Resources

SB133 - AN ACT relating to animals; prohibiting as person from possessing a animal with intent to use the animal in a fight with another animal or to engage in certain other prohibited acts Referred to Committee on Natural Resources

 

NEW HAMPSHIRE

HB427 - AN ACT relative to equine licenses

 

NEW MEXICO

(1/28/09) - (We couldn't help ourselves and HAD to post this one !) - New Mexico lawmakers have delayed a decision on allowing webcasts of committee meetings in part because webcasts might show some lawmakers dozing off. The House Rules Committee created a subpanel to study the proposal, which has wide support among the committee. One representative said webcasts could encroach on lawmakers' privacy and capture embarrassing moments. "If I am sleeping and I am being recorded, that can be used as political gain," said state Rep. Ray Begaye. (Wonder if YouTube would be interested in creating a special section for embarrassing legislative moments, where every belch, nose pick and nap is recorded and replayed for posterity.  Now that's entertainment. In some places around the country, most lawmakers don't show up for committee meetings.  So putting a webcam in those meetings would be like putting a bell on a cat, but in reverse.  The bell lets know where the cat is, the webcam lets you know where the lawmaker isn't.)

HB82 - AN ACT RELATING TO CRUELTY TO ANIMALS; CLARIFYING THE PENALTY FOR INTENTIONALLY STARVING OR DEHYDRATING AN ANIMAL TO DEATH

HB0125 - AN ACT MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE SPAY AND NEUTER PROGRAM IN SOCORRO

HB159 - AN ACT RELATING TO CRIMINAL LAW; EXPANDING AND CLARIFYING THE CRIME OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS; PROVIDING A PENALTY FOR LEAVING AN ANIMAL IN A HOT CAR; INCREASING PENALTY WHEN CRUELTY CAUSES DEATH OR GREAT BODILY HARM; CLARIFYING THE APPLICATION OF THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE.

HB265 - AN ACT RELATING TO ANIMALS; PROHIBITING THE USE OF GAS CHAMBERS FOR THE EUTHANASIA OF CERTAIN ANIMALS

HB667 - AN ACT RELATING TO ANIMALS; BROADENING THE DEFINITION OF "DANGEROUS DOG"; ADDING NEW REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS; CHANGING THE REQUIREMENTS FOR PROSECUTION UNDER THE DANGEROUS DOG ACT.

SB127 - AN ACT RELATING TO ANIMALS; CLARIFYING PROVISIONS OF CRIMINAL LAW REGARDING TAKING CRUELLY TREATED ANIMALS INTO CUSTODY; PROVIDING FOR SECURITY IN AMOUNTS NEEDED FOR THE CARE OF ANIMALS SEIZED IN COMMISSION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS CASES.

SB313 - AN ACT RELATING TO CRIMINAL OFFENSES; PROVIDING THAT EXTREME CRUELTY TO ANIMALS INCLUDES ABANDONMENT OR FAILURE TO PROVIDE SUSTENANCE

 

NEW YORK

A00255 - AN  ACT  to  amend  the  agriculture and markets law, in relation to the microchipping of dogs and the creation of a registry of dogs

A01540 - AN ACT to amend the agriculture and markets law, in relation to requiring all dogs and their owners to successfully complete basic obedience training

A05507 - Prohibits the sale of dogs and cats by animal facilities under inhumane conditions; regulates the operation of commercial kennels used for breeding dogs

S00518 -  AN ACT to amend the general business law, in relation to prohibiting the sale of dogs born on puppy mills by pet dealers 

S02211 - AN  ACT  to  amend  the  agriculture and markets law, in relation to the microchipping of dogs and the creation of a registry of dogs

S02219 - Requires all dogs and their owners to successfully complete obedience training.

 

NORTH CAROLINA

HB27 - AN ACT to regulate the euthanasia of animals and to prohibit specified methods of euthanasia of animals.

Dare County - (2/14/09) - Dare County is considering BSL. The ordinance being presented at this Board of Commissioners meeting is not breed-specific; the BSL will be presented at a later date. Residents may wish to attend this meeting to provide input regarding the proposed changes to the dangerous dogs ordinance and to speak out against future BSL. Please note that the Board of Commissioners is meeting in a new place.

The Dare County Board of Commissioners will conduct its first meeting in the newly completed annex of the County Administration Building on Monday, February 16. The meeting will begin at 5 p.m. The Administration Building is located adjacent to the Dare County Justice Center at 954 Marshall C. Collins Drive in Manteo. The government complex is situated at the northwest corner of the Highway 64 and NC 345 intersection.

For additional information and contacts, click HERE.

McDowell County - (1/27/09) - The McDowell County Planning Board is still working on a new animal control ordinance. At Monday's regular meeting, the county's Planning Board looked over the proposed 17-page ordinance. It covers how animals should be treated, the keeping of dangerous ones, how animals should be confined, rabies control, the unlawful killing of animals, the euthanization of feral dogs and cats and what to do with stray or abandoned ones. It does not require people to get their animals spayed or neutered. The county's animal control officers will enforce the proposed ordinance by issuing civil penalties. For the first offense, the owner of the animal will get a $50 fine. The penalties would go all the way to $500, which would be imposed for the fourth violation. If any dangerous dog or animal runs at large, whether on the owner's property or not, the civil penalty will be $200. For each subsequent violation or offense, the owner or keeper will pay a civil penalty of $400.
During Monday's meeting, some Planning Board members said they were concerned that the proposed ordinance might be too restrictive. "Most of this is going to be open to interpretation by the Animal Control officer to use his better judgment." The proposed rules cover nuisance animals. An animal control officer cannot enter someone's home to see if an animal is being treated properly. The officer must first have a court order or the permission of the owner,but an officer can enter a home if the owner opens his door and the officer happens to see an abused animal inside. The officer cannot search the house for anything else.  The county Planning Board will take the matter up again at the next regular meeting set for Feb. 23.

Morganton - Burtke County - (2/2/09) - A county commissioners' meeting will begin at 6 p.m. Tuesday in the Board Room of the County Services Building. One of the items on the agenda will be the Burke County Animal Control Ordinance, submitted by the Burke County Friends for Animals Humane Society. Many long hours were spent on the creation of this proposal to protect animals as well as citizens. Another action we can take is to identify and promptly report cases of animal neglect and abuse to Animal Control. This is not limited to dogs and cats, but other animals as well. Your identity will be strictly confidential.

Raleigh - (2/12/09) -  Hundreds of animal rights activists went to the General Assembly Thursday to ask for puppy mills to become outlawed in North Carolina.  The animal rights activists also lobbied for two other animal rights proposals: banning the practice of tethering dogs for more than three hours a day and the penning of animals for hunting purposes. 

 

NORTH DAKOTA

HB1499 - AN ACT to amend section 20.01-04-12 related to the train of gun dogs

 

OHIO

Columbus- (2/9/09) - As livestock groups and farm organizations in Indiana and Illinois monitor HSUS Humane Lobby Day activities, the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation (OFBF) is preparing for a face-to-face meeting with HSUS President Wayne Pacelle, a meeting was initiated by HSUS. “HSUS and their organizer in Ohio has had a relationship with one of our livestock specialists for some time, reached out to him and said we’d like to visit and that meeting is on the books,” said Joe Cornely, a spokesman for the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation. As far as the agenda, Cornely isn’t sure, but he doubts Wayne Pacelle is flying to Columbus to become better acquainted. “I would expect them to talk about their goals and hear what our goals are, and then perhaps discuss, if there can there be a meeting of the minds, or are we going to stay at opposite ends of the spectrum,” Cornely said.

Franklin County - (2/2/09) - Franklin County commissioners said they never knew that their shelter gives about 400 purebred dogs a year to rescue groups. The groups pay only $12 or $24 for a county dog license. Although the shelter typically charges $117 for a dog, the same dog at a rescue group goes for $150 to $250. Even though rescue groups pay only a license fee for the Franklin County dogs, their directors say they barely break even.  Commissioners say they know too little about the rescue program to comment, but they note the lack of a written contract as another example of why they want to hire a shelter operations expert. "It appears to me that there isn't any strong county policy in this area and it needs to be reviewed as we move forward with the building of our new, $18 million shelter," Commissioner John O'Grady said. Commissioners placed shelter Director Lisa Wahoff and Assistant Director Craig Turk on paid leave last month amid reports from shelter veterinarians that sick and dangerous dogs were being placed for adoption.

 

OKLAHOMA

HB1332 - (AKC ALERT 2/17/09) - URGENT: Oklahoma Measure Would Restrict Movement of Breeders and Allow for Unreasonable Search and Seizure  

The AKC is extremely concerned about provisions in Oklahoma House Bill 1332, as written, and urges all Oklahoma dog fanciers, owners and breeders to contact their representatives to express their concerns. The AKC promotes responsible dog ownership, responsible breeding practices,  enforcement of cruelty laws, reasonable inspection programs and nuisance regulations. However, HB 1332 does not improve the welfare of animals and would punish fanciers, breeders and responsible owners who participate in dog sports and/or breed in Oklahoma.

 

The AKC is disappointed that although the bill’s sponsor agreed to address concerns about this measure voiced by the AKC and its federation prior to bringing the measure to the floor, these discussions have not yet taken place.

Provisions of HB 1332 would:

• Duplicate existing federal laws and also require that anyone who is a breeder, person, firm, corporation or other association that qualifies and is certified as a breeder, dealer, animal rescue, out-of-state dealer/breeder, shelter, or retail pet store that sells, gives away, or transfers a cumulative total of 25 or more animals of any age in any one (1) calendar be subject to licensure and inspections that mirror USDA standards.  This includes all animal rescue organizations that utilize foster homes if they transfer more than 25 animals per calendar year, but excludes all shelters.
• Stipulate that out of state breeders cannot transport animals in Oklahoma without a state license. Although substitute bill provisions allow for the exclusion of those who participate in dog shows and field trials, it does not cover those who travel into Oklahoma for other dog-related events such as training sessions, matches, hunting activities and public education events that are not classified as a dog show or field event. 
• Require the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture to develop and implement regulations pertaining to this bill, but does not guarantee public input or representation from stakeholders. Experts and responsible breeders should be consulted in the development and implementation of such regulations.
• Provide for warrantless search and seizure by poorly-defined enforcement personnel. The measure states, “Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry personnel and agents shall have the right to enter the premises of an individual or facility and conduct inspections.” The bill language does not define an “individual”.  This appears to leave the door open for those that do not qualify to be subjected to unwarranted searches and seizures.  The legislation should state specifically that inspections/searches pertain to only those that are applicants and/or licensees.
• Provide no element for public education or consumer protection and attaches all the responsibility to breeders.  It provides no incentives for those who follow ethical guidelines established by parent breed clubs, or obtain health and genetic testing to ensure consumers have healthy quality family pets. Responsible breeders follow ethics guidelines and existing federal laws. Rather than to bring substandard kennels up to par, HB 1332 will cause them to hide from regulators, making identification and enforcement nearly impossible.

HB 1332 continues to impose punitive measures that duplicate federal efforts.  This bill will have a negative impact on responsible breeders with valid USDA licenses, those that visit Oklahoma for recreation and legitimate organizations that provide a valuable rescue services to animals. 

The AKC and its federation encourage animal advocates to look for solutions to community pet issues. However, HB 1332 as amended cannot solve the issues of producing healthy pets for consumers and eliminating substandard breeding practices.

 

What You Can Do:

• Contact your representative in the Oklahoma General Assembly and ask him or her to oppose HB 1332. To find out who represents you in the Oklahoma State Legislature select the address tab found at this link. http://www.okhouse.gov/Members/MemberListing.aspx

Midwest City -  A Midwest City family has won their legal battle to reverse a city ordinance against certain types of dogs.

Tulsa - (2/4/09) - Oklahoma farm and livestock groups are making a pre-emptive strike against animal rights activists.  On the heels of a California initiative passed by voters in November, a handful of farm groups — backed by key Oklahoma lawmakers — are trying to pass a bill that would give the Legislature the exclusive right to make laws about farm animal treatment. "In an ag state like Oklahoma, the Legislature knows how best to take care of the animals," said Rep. Don Armes, R-Faxon, chairman of the House Agriculture and Rural Development Committee and sponsor of the House version of the bill.

 

OREGON

HB2470 - Prohibits owning, possessing, controlling or having charge of more than 25 sexually intact dogs aged four months or older. Imposes conditions for owning, possessing, controlling or having
charge of 10 or more sexually intact dogs aged four months or older. Creates exceptions. Makes violation subject to maximum penalty of six months' imprisonment, $2,500 fine, or both.   Imposes requirements and prohibitions on pet dealers selling, bartering or exchanging dogs. Provides customers of pet dealers with specific remedies if dogs have diseases, illnesses, adverse conditions or adverse congenital or hereditary defects. A BILL FOR AN ACT Relating to dogs. 2/3/09 - referred to Consumer Protection: 

CONSUMER PROTECTION COMMITTEE - OREGON

 

Paul Holvey, Chair - D

Capitol Phone: 503-986-1408
Capitol Address: 900 Court St NE H-275, Salem, OR, 97301
Email: rep.paulholvey@state.or.us

Chuck Riley, Vice-Chair - D

Capitol Phone: 503-986-1429
Interim Phone: 503-579-8302
Capitol Address: 900 Court St NE, H-274, Salem, OR, 97301
Interim Address: 250 NE Hillwood Dr. , Hillsboro, OR, 97124
Email: rep.chuckriley@state.or.us

Jim Weidner, Vice-Chair - R

Capitol Phone: 503-986-1424
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-387, Salem, OR, 97301
Email: rep.jimweidner@state.or.us

Brent Barton - D

Capitol Phone: 503-986-1451
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-386, Salem, OR, 97301
Email: rep.brentbarton@state.or.us

Jean Cowan - D

Capitol Phone: 503-986-1410
Interim Phone: 541-867-4233
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-376, Salem, OR, 97301
Interim Address: 3101 SE Ferry Slip Rd #322, Newport, OR, 97365
Email: rep.jeancowan@state.or.us

Vic Gilliam - R

Capitol Phone: 503-986-1418
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-389, Salem, OR, 97301
Interim Address: PO Box 158, Silverton, OR, 97381
Email: rep.vicgilliam@state.or.us
Interim Email: rep.vicgilliam@state.or.us

Wayne Krieger - R

Capitol Phone: 503-986-1401
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE., H-381, Salem, OR, 97301
Email: rep.waynekrieger@state.or.us

Greg Matthews - D

Capitol Phone: 503-986-1450
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-379, Salem, OR, 97301
Email: rep.gregmatthews@state.or.us

Carolyn Tomei - D

Capitol Phone: 503-986-1441
Interim Phone: 503-653-5180
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE., H-279, Salem, OR, 97301
Interim Address: 11907 SE 19th Ave., Milwaukie, OR, 97222
Email: rep.carolyntomei@state.or.us

Matt Wingard - R

Capitol Phone: 503-986-1426
District Phone: 503-685-7346
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-474, Salem, OR, 97301
District Office Address: 28356 SW Wagner St., Wilsonville, OR, 97070
Email: rep.mattwingard@state.or.us

ALBANY - (2/2/09) - Albany Mayor Sharon Konopa will ask the city council to repeal a restriction on the number of dogs people can have in their homes. Konopa said she has heard so many reasons to do away with the limit that she has started plans to do just that. For the past 25 years, the city code has limited households to two adult dogs. Because some people persuaded the council in October 2007 that they had legitimate reasons to have more than two, the council approved an exemption clause to allow that under certain conditions. Staff, however, asked the council last week to remove the exemption because, as City Manager Wes Hare told the council, it created discontent and did not accomplish what the city hoped.

 

RHODE ISLAND

SB23 - A N ACT RELATING TO ANIMALS AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY -- DOGS

Warren - (1/27/09) - A doggie daycare has been delayed from opening on Cutler Street until town zoning ordinances catch up to the times. According to Ben Ferrazzano, chairman of the Warren Zoning Board, the dog center will have to jump through a couple hoops before it can open shop. During the Wednesday, Jan. 2, Warren Zoning Board meeting, board members reviewed an application submitted by Alexandra Morgan and Andy Arruda to open a dog daycare center off Cutler Street in Mr. Arruda’s mill space. According to dog trainer Ms. Morgan, her intent is to run a daycare center during business hours, teach training classes at night and operate a small dog-related retail shop out of Mr. Arruda’s building. While Mr. Ferrazzano said the potential training facility has merit, members did not approve or deny it because the application was submitted as a daycare center. Zoning laws do not address dog daycare centers, while they do acknowledge child daycare centers. Mr. Ferrazzano said this type of application is unprecedented, therefore in order for the doggy daycare center to open, Warren Planning Board members will have to change zoning ordinances, then ask the Warren Town Council for approval. That will likely take weeks, with public hearings scheduled along the way. Mr. Arruda’s property will also have to undergo a zone change. He said council members should address Ms. Morgan’s request during their next council meeting.

SOUTH CAROLINA

Scranton - town officials said they plan to hold discussions with Florence County leaders after a resident asked for the town to ban pit bulls. Mayor Pro Tem Thomas Knotts, who presided over the meeting (02/02/09), said the county handles planning and zoning for the town. He told citizens that he planned to call county council Chairman K.G. "Rusty" Smith on Wednesday morning to discuss the issue.

 

TENNESSEE

**NOTE - Click HERE to access SAOVA for emailing committee members re: SB0258/HB0386**

HB0113 - Animals and Animal Cruelty - As introduced, deletes provisions relative to state licensing of dog and cat dealers. - Amends TCA Title 44, Chapter 17.

HB0385 - Animals and Animal Cruelty - As introduced, enacts the “Tennessee Animal Abuser Registration, Tracking and Verification Act.” - Amends TCA Title 40, Chapter 39.

HB0386/SB0258 - AN ACT to protect consumers from purchasing unhealthy companion animals by regulating commercial breeders. Animals and Animal Cruelty - As introduced, enacts the "Commercial Breeder Act." - Amends TCA Title 47, Chapter 18, Part 1; Title 39, Chapter 14, Part 2; and Title 44, Chapter 17.

HB0413 - Animals and Animal Cruelty - As introduced, deletes requirement persons selling dogs and cats at a flea market obtain a license as a dealer from the department of agriculture. - Amends TCA Title 44, Chapter 17, Part 1.

HB0422 - Animals and Animal Cruelty - As introduced, deletes provisions relative to state licensing of dog and cat dealers. - Amends TCA Title 44, Chapter 17.

HB0539 - Animal Control - As introduced, requires that forfeited amounts from deposits paid to agencies to ensure that adopted dogs and cats are spayed or neutered be used to conduct programs to spay and neuter dogs and cats in the community where the agency is located instead of being used to conduct educational programs in support of spaying and neutering. - Amends TCA Title 44, Chapter 17, Part 5.

HB0544 - Tort Liability and Reform - As introduced, exempts persons from civil liability for rendering or obtaining medical care or treatment to certain animals under specified circumstances. - Amends TCA Title 29, Chapter 34, Part 2.

HB0626  - Animals and Animal Cruelty - As introduced, provides that in animal cruelty prosecutions, if the defendant does not post court-ordered security to pay for expense of caring for the animal within 72 hours, animal is forfeited and defendant loses all ownership rights.

SB0041 - Animals and Animal Cruelty - As introduced, deletes provisions relative to state licensing of dog and cat dealers. - Amends TCA Title 44, Chapter 17.

SB0182 - Animals and Animal Cruelty - As introduced, enacts the “Tennessee Animal Abuser Registration, Tracking and Verification Act.” - Amends TCA Title 40, Chapter 39.

SB0258/HB0386 - AN ACT to protect consumers from purchasing unhealthy companion animals by regulating commercial breeders. Animals and Animal Cruelty - As introduced, enacts the "Commercial Breeder Act." - Amends TCA Title 47, Chapter 18, Part 1; Title 39, Chapter 14, Part 2; and Title 44, Chapter 17.

SB0391 - Animals and Animal Cruelty - As introduced, provides that in animal cruelty prosecutions, if the defendant does not post court-ordered security to pay for expense of caring for the animal within 72 hours, animal is forfeited and defendant loses all ownership rights.

SB0410 - Tort Liability and Reform - As introduced, exempts persons from civil liability for rendering or obtaining medical care or treatment to certain animals under specified circumstances. - Amends TCA Title 29, Chapter 34, Part 2.

SB0435 - Animals and Animal Cruelty - As introduced, deletes provisions relative to state licensing of dog and cat dealers. - Amends TCA Title 44, Chapter 17.

SB0538 - Animals and Animal Cruelty - As introduced, deletes requirement persons selling dogs and cats at a flea market obtain a license as a dealer from the department of agriculture. - Amends TCA Title 44, Chapter 17, Part 1.

SB0675 - Animal Control - As introduced, requires that forfeited amounts from deposits paid to agencies to ensure that adopted dogs and cats are spayed or neutered be used to conduct programs to spay and neuter dogs and cats in the community where the agency is located instead of being used to conduct educational programs in support of spaying and neutering. - Amends TCA Title 44, Chapter 17, Part 5.

SB1322 - Animals and Animal Cruelty - As introduced, 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. - Amends TCA Title 39, Chapter 14, Part 2

SB1481 - Animals and Animal Cruelty - As introduced, requires landlords and mortgage holders to notify animal control entity or animal shelter if vacated property contains abandoned animals. - Amends TCA Title 39, Chapter 14, Part 2.

SB1585 - Animals and Animal Cruelty - As introduced, establishes recording fee for registering certain pedigreed livestock; creates penalty for knowingly recording or presenting a fraudulent pedigree. - Amends TCA Title 44.

Greene County - (1/28SB391 - Animals and Animal Cruelty - As introduced, provides that in animal cruelty prosecutions, if the defendant does not post court-ordered security to pay for expense of caring for the animal within 72 hours, animal is forfeited and defendant loses all ownership rights./09) - The Greene County Commission's Animal Control Committee will discuss a proposed spay/neuter law for Greene County when it meets at 3:45 p.m. on Thursday. Greene County currently does not have a spay/neuter law. The public meeting will be in the conference room of the Greene County Courthouse Annex building. Chairman Jan Kiker said today she will submit a proposal for a new spay/neuter ordinance for Greene County that she has modeled on a similar one in effect in Buncombe County, N.C.

 

TEXAS

HB925 - AN ACT relating to the handling of or caring for a pit bull breed of dog by certain minors

HB 1046 - AN ACT relating to the appeals process in the disposition of cruelly treated animals.

HB1147 - AN ACT relating to conduct constituting the offense of dog fighting and to the criminal and civil consequences of committing that offense.

SB554 - AN ACT relating to conduct constituting the offense of dog fighting and to the criminal and civil consequences of committing that offense.

SB634 - AN ACT relating to the unlawful restraint of a dog.

SB 682 - AN ACT relating to participation in an animal identification system

McAllen - (1/27/09) - City leaders are considering an ordinance that would require virtually all McAllen dog and cat owners to spay or neuter the animals. The move is being led by City Commissioner John Ingram, who said the city has to do something to combat the rising cost of managing stray animals for the city.  The city will likely hold a workshop in March to discuss the issue.

Plano - proposed changes to Chapter 4 Animal Ordinance provisions for Mandatory Spay/Neuter and Microchips for all dogs and cats over 4 months upon transfer of ownership and other anti-breeding anti-pet provisions

 

UTAH

No Report for Utah

 

VERMONT

H0096 - AN ACT RELATING TO PROHIBITING A PERSON FROM OPERATING A MOTOR VEHICLE WITH AN ANIMAL ON HIS OR HER LAP

 

VIRGINIA

HB 2220 - A BILL to amend and reenact § 3.2-6543 of the Code of Virginia, relating to salaries and expenses of animal control officers.

HB 2669 - 'Humane investigators' are minimally trained volunteer (unpaid, unless a locality wants to pay their expenses) ACOs but with many of the investigative powers of the real thing.

Albemarle County - (2/4/09) - Albemarle County’s first contested case under its animal noise ordinance adjourned Tuesday in hopes that a mediator would help neighbors find a solution to the battle over two barking dogs. After General District Judge William G. Barkley paused testimony to suggest mediation, both the plaintiff and dog owner agreed that they would consider resolving the case outside the courtroom. If the parties can’t agree what should happen with a mediator, the trial is expected to continue March 13 in Albemarle General District Court.

 

WASHINGTON

HB1406 - AN ACT Relating to providing assistance to spay.neuter certain animals.

SB5329 - AN ACT Relating to providing assistance to spay.neuter certain animals.

SB5383 - AN ACT Relating to Wolfdogs.

Grays Harbor - (1/27/09) - Grays Harbor County Commissioners have approved a barking dog ordinance. It will allow the county to impose a fine of $150 on the owners of chronically barking dogs. Commissioner Terry Willis says that should motivate owners to quiet their pets.

 

WISCONSIN

Oshkosh - city has decided to pull breed-specific legislation from proposed animal ordinance changes in wake of public criticism. After completing more research into the topic and receiving community feedback, most of which was from people opposed to breed-specific legislation, health director Paul Spiegel said he would request the measure be pulled from proposed animal ordinance changes during a meeting Thursday (01/15/09) with the work group that has been spearheading the effort.

 

COUNTRIES OF OTHER INTEREST

 

AUSTRALIA

SE Queensland - (1/29/09) - New cat registration requirements will do nothing to control the number of animals being dumped according to animal rescue services. From July 1, all south-east Queensland councils will be required to make owners register their cats with a microchip and identity collar, bringing registration for both cats and dogs into line. Pet shops will also be required to microchip all dogs and cats before they are sold. The legislation is not retrospective, but any change of ownership of a cat or dog will require they be microchipped. But Coast animal rescue group 4Paws and the RSPCA both said the legislation did not go far enough, because people not de-sexing their pets was the major contributor to the huge numbers of unwanted animals. 4Paws president Julie Penlington echoed RSPCA spokesman Michael Beatty saying de-sexing of all household cats and dogs prior should be mandatory.