The Government Relations department leads the AKC’s legislative efforts and identifies its goals as “working to protect the rights of all dog owners and promote responsible dog ownership” (AKC Mission Statement.) GR further identifies its mission as educating and informing responsible dog owners and breeders about the issues that impact them as well as monitoring and positively impacting legislation that affect them. The AKC recognizes that advocacy works best when those who are directly affected by legislation take the lead in working with policymakers.

Learn the latest from AKC GR and take action on bills that could impact responsible dog ownership, canine wellbeing and your rights to own a dog. 

September 2023

• MA Action Alert: Oppose Bills Restricting Dog Owners and Kennels by October 3, 2023!
• Forsyth Co., GA: Hearing THURSDAY (9/21/23) on Regulating Pet Sellers and Buyers
• CA Information Update: Bills to expand Veterinary Care
• Louisville/Jefferson Co., KY: Animal Ordinance Has Problematic Definitions, Guts Consumer Protections
• CA Update: Ask Governor to Support Two Bill Protecting Dogs and Dog Owners
• Gadsden, AL: Ask Council to Repeal Mandatory/Spay Neuter Law
• OR Update: Push for “Animal Cruelty” Ballot Measure – Do Not Sign
• California Update on Bills Impacting Dog Owners
• Comment Today on Rabies Importation Rules Proposed By CDC, Support Option 2 

August 2023

• Federal Anti-Breeder Proposals: Time is Running Out, Contact Your Member of Congress
• Florida: Sales Tax Holiday on Certain Pet Supplies through 9/8/23
• Texas Licensed Breeder Advisory Committee Accepting Comments for September 1 Meeting
• TX: Law Requiring Kennels to Obtain Informed Consent Goes into Effect September 1
• NC Reminder: Join AKC GR at Tarheel Shows to Learn About Being a United Voice for Dogs!
• OK Breeder Update: New Seizure and Impoundment Regulations Adopted
• North Carolina: Join AKC GR at Tarheel Shows to Learn About Being a United Voice for Dogs!
• Your Members of Congress Need to hear Your Opposition to Anti-Breeder Legislation – Call or email TODAY!
• Texas Licensed Breeder Advisory Committee to Meet in September
• Oregon Adjourns 2023 Legislative Session

July 2023

• NJ Update: Governor Signs Concerning Cost of Care Bill into Law
• Urgent: Activists Pushing Anti-Breeder Bills in Congress – Call Your Lawmakers TODAY!
• Federal: Increased Dog Import Requirements, Better Protection Against Rabies Part of CDC Proposal
• Increased Enforcement, Continued High Compliance Demonstrated in 2022 APHIS Impact Report
• Delaware Session Ends for Year: Barking Dog Bill Held, Pet Insurance Bill Advances
• This Just In: CDC Extends Suspension of Dogs from Countries Classified as High-Risk for Rabies

June 2023

• Delaware Update: Governor Signs Cruelty Reporting Bill
• CT Update: Bills Impacting Dog Owners Favorably Amended Before Becoming Law
• New York Legislature Adjourns with Victories for Dog Owners
• Oregon: Ask Governor to Oppose Pet Choice Restrictions
• California: Kern County Commission Advances Revised Mandatory Spay/Neuter Proposal
• Texas Update:  Governor Takes Action on Three Dog-Related Bills
• NY Update: Assembly and Senate Pass Hunting Bill With AKC Amendments
• Pennsylvania Update: Bill Updating License Fees and Other Dog Law Changes Continues to Advance
• NJ: Two More Communities to Consider Restricting Consumer Choice in Pets Next Week
• California: Attend Kern County Possible Mandatory Spay/Neuter Hearing Tomorrow (6/21)
• Florida Update: Positive Dog Bills Are Signed into Law
• MA Action Alert: Express Concern Regarding Grooming Bill on June 26, 2023!
• AKC GR Releases Updated Impact By State Reports
• Pennsylvania: Ask State Senate to Support Comprehensive Animal Welfare Board
• NJ: Mahwah Township Scheduled to Consider Retail Sales Prohibition
• California: Kern County to Consider Possible Mandatory Spay/Neuter on Wednesday (6/13)
• Louisiana: Quiet 2023 State Session on Dog Issues Adjourns
• Alabama Legislature Adjourns for 2023 with No Problematic Dog Bills Enacted
• California Update on Bills Impacting Dog Owners 
• California: Bill Limiting Use of Police Canines Tabled by Author 
• Pennsylvania Success:  Committee Reinstates Exemption for Dog Events Participants and Sportsmen
• CT SB 1069: Clarification-- Bill With Positive Amendments Impacting Kennels Proceeding to Governor
• Pennsylvania:  Committee to Consider Changes to Dog Events, Licensing, Other Dog Laws Tomorrow (June 6)
• Nevada Update on Bills Impacting Dog Owners 
• Texas Wrap-Up: Updates on Dog-Related Legislation

May 2023

• Governor Abbott Signs Breeder Bill into Law
• Illinois: Spring Session Adjourns, Majority of Dog-Related Bills Held
• NJ: Contact Governor Murphy to Request Veto of Unconstitutional Cost of Care Bill
• California: Assembly Committee Advances Bill Limiting Use of Police Canines
• California Update on Bills Impacting Dog Owners 
• NY Update: Senate to Consider Hunting Bill with AKC Amendments
• California: Kern County Postpones Consideration of Mandatory Spay/Neuter
• Washington Co., TN – Commission Votes on Dog Tethering Resolution Monday, 5/22/23
• South Carolina: Problematic Animal Bills Carry Over to 2024
• Texas: Continue Urging Governor Abbott to Veto SB 876
• CT Update: Bills Impacting Dog Owners Favorably Amended and Progressing
• New Jersey: Seizure, Cost of Care Bills Scheduled for Committee Hearings Tomorrow (May 18)
• Kansas Legislative Session Wrap Up
• Tennessee Session Wrap Up: Positive Bills Pass, Others Carry Over to 2024
• California: Kern County to Consider Possible Mandatory Spay/Neuter on Wednesday (5/17)
• Washington State Adjourns 2023 Legislative Session
• Delaware Update on Barking Dog, Cruelty Reporting Bills
• Breaking: Supreme Court Upholds Calif. Pork Import Rules, Could Set Precedent for Dogs
• Nevada: Ask Committee to Support Cruelty Bill With AKC Amendments
• Texas Dog Owners: Urge Governor Abbott to Protect the Future of Purebred Dogs and Veto SB 876
• New York: Senate Passes Debarking Ban, Contact the Assembly
• Florida Update: Bad Bills Fail, Positive Bills Continue to Advance
• Massachusetts’ Joint Committee on Agriculture To Consider Dog-Related Bills Next Week
• Texas Urgent Alert: Final Vote Expected Tomorrow on Bill Regulating Hobbyists
• Georgia Session Wrap Up: Canine Legislation Enacted in 2023, Several Bills Carry Over to 2024
• Delaware Update: Committee Approves Bills Regulating Barking Dogs and Animal Abuse Reporting
• Idaho Adjourns 2023 Legislative Session
• New York: Ask Senate to Oppose Debarking Ban
• California Update: Bill Limiting Use of Police Canines Remains Pending in Committee

April  2023

• Delaware:  Committee Considering Barking Dogs and Animal Abuse Reporting on Wednesday (5/3)
• Delaware Update:  Bill Naming Rescue Dogs as State Dog Goes to Governor
• South Carolina: Your Voices Were Heard! Positive Amendments Proposed to Animal Forfeiture Bill
• Washington: Bill Eroding Rights of Animal Owners Advances to Governor
• U.S: AR Groups Lobbying to Restrict Dog Breeders. Contact Congress Now.
• USDA APHIS Issues New, Controversial Five-Year Strategic Plan
• Oklahoma Legislative Update
• South Carolina: IMMEDIATE Action Needed to Stop Animal Forfeiture Bill! Vote Is Tomorrow, 4/26, 10:00am
• Texas Update on Bills Impacting Dog Owners
• Delaware Information:  House Committee to Consider Bill Naming Rescue Dogs as State Dog
• Texas Senate Approves Breeder Bill with Favorable Amendments, Concerns Remain
• Nashville/Davidson Co., TN:  Vote on Overreaching Animal Ordinance Deferred, Ongoing Action Needed!
• Nevada Update on Bills Impacting Dog Owners
• Delaware: Senate to Vote on Immunity for Animal Cruelty Reporting on Tuesday
• New York: Committee to Consider Debarking Ban on Tuesday
• California Update on Bills Impacting Dog Owners
• California: Kern County Postpones Consideration of Mandatory Spay/Neuter
• Proposal Would Undermine Animal Welfare
• Nashville/Davidson Co., TN: Overreaching Animal Ordinance Has SECOND Vote on Tue., 4/18/23
• Florida: Bills that Limit Dog Breed Discrimination Advance, Send Support for HB 941/SB 942
• Illinois: Ask Committee to Support Ban on Insurance Breed Discrimination
• ME Alert: Support Coverage for the Veterinary Care of Retired Police K-9s 
• New York: Weigh In On Canine Health and Welfare Priorities for Federal Farm Bill Tomorrow (4/14)
• California: Kern County to Consider Mandatory Spay/Neuter on Wednesday (4/19)
• Update: Texas Bills Regulating Hobbyists Passed out of Committee with Amendments
• Oregon Update: Bills Impacting Dog Owners
• Washington State Update on Bills Impacting Dog Owners
• Update: Texas Bills Regulating Hobbyists Remain Pending, Continue Senate Outreach
• AKC Comment on USDA APHIS’ Environmental Enrichment Proposal
• Washington: Bill Eroding Rights of Animal Owners Advances in Legislature
• New Mexico Legislative Session Wrap-up
• Kentucky’s 2023 Legislative Session Ends with Positive Results for Dogs
• CT Update: Bills Held by Joint Judiciary Committee
• US Congress: Proposed Breeder Restrictions Could Impact You. Tell Congress to Oppose    
• Delaware Update: Reporting Animal Abuse, Regulating Barking Dogs, and Naming a State Dog

March  2023

• Massachusetts’ Joint Judiciary Committee Considers Dog-Related Bills Next Week
• South Carolina: Animal Forfeiture Bill Continues to Advance.  Your Action Is Urgently Needed!
• Washington: Ask Committee to Support Bill Tomorrow (3/31) Protecting Pets and Owners During Extreme Weather
• Texas Senate Bill Regulating Hobbyists Heard Yesterday, Continued Action Requested
• Delaware Update:  Hearing to Consider Regulating Barking Dogs Postponed 
• CT Update: Bills Impacting Kennels and Domestic Dog Laws Advance
• Texas Urgent Reminder: Dog Owners Rights are in Jeopardy, Hearing Tomorrow, 3/28
• Delaware: Hearing to Restrict Barking Dogs on Wednesday (3/29)
• Urgent Texas Alert: Senate Committee to Consider Bill Regulating Hobbyists on 3/28
• Florida:  Oppose a New “Lawyers for Animals” Bill, in Committee Monday (3/27/23)
• Colorado: Lafayette Council Tables Ban on Private Pet Sales; Thank the Council
• California:  Assembly Committee Advances Bill Limiting Use of Police Canines
• NH Update: Support Police and Working K-9s at March 29 House Committee Hearing.
• Illinois: Bill Expanding Animal Forfeiture Laws to Be Considered Tomorrow (3/22)
• Urgent Reminder: Texas Bill to Regulate Hobbyists to Be Considered Tomorrow (3/22)- Call Now!
• Fort Smith, AR: Mandatory Spay/Neuter, Other Overreaching Provisions on Agenda TOMORROW (3/21/23)
• South Carolina: Additional Opposition Needed Against Animal Forfeiture Bill. Take Action Now!
• ME Information: Hearing on Animals Abandoned by Tenants
• Kansas: Hearing Wednesday (3/22) on Bill Impacting Dog Owner Property Rights 
• Urgent Michigan Update: Public Forum Tonight (3/20) on Potential 2024 Animal Cruelty Ballot Measure
• New Jersey: Troublesome Cost of Care Bills Scheduled for Committee Hearings This Week
• Colorado: Hearing Tomorrow on Local Ban on All Dog Sales
• North Carolina Information: Committee to Consider Bill to Ban Pet Leasing
• CT Update: Bills Supporting Police K-9s and Prohibiting Insurance Breed Discrimination Advance
• Tennessee: Voices of Responsible Dog Owners Are Heard, Problematic Bills Do Not Advance
• Florida Update: Continued Action Needed on Overreaching, Punitive Dog Breeder Bills
• California: Bill Impacting Owner’s Rights Amended by Committee 
• Urgent: Texas Bill to Regulate Hobbyists to Be Considered Wednesday (3/22)- Call NOW
• Colorado: Local Council Considering Banning Private Sales of Dogs
• NH Update: Support Police and Working K-9s Before March 16 Senate Session
• Minnesota: Dog-Related Homeowners Insurance, Consumer Choice Bills Scheduled for Hearings This Week
• Illinois: Update on Numerous Bills Impacting Dog Owners and Trainers
• California:  Committee Considering Proposed Limits on Police Canines
• Tennessee: Bills Criminalizing Safe Dog Care to be Heard Mar. 13 & 14—Act Now to Request Amendments
• New Mexico: Problematic Tethering Bill Amended, Additional Committee Hearings Expected Soon
• South Carolina: Animal Forfeiture Bill in Committee Tomorrow, 3/9/23. Take Action Now!
• APHIS Extends Environmental Enrichment Comment Period to April 10
• Florida: Bills Require Owners of Intact Female Dogs to Register with Government. Oppose Today
• MN Alert: Oppose Restrictions on Consumer Choice of Pets 
• Montana Update on Bills Impacting Dog Owners
• Arkansas: Help End Dog Breed Discrimination. Take action now!
• Oregon Update: Bills Impacting Dog Owners
• ME Alert: Support Allowing Use of Courthouse Facility Dogs 
• Illinois: Hearings Tuesday Consider Mandatory Sterilization, Other Issues Impacting Dog Owners 
• New Mexico: Urge Committee to Oppose Arbitrary Tethering Bill before Hearing
• California Update on Bills Impacting Dog Owners
• Washington state Update: Bills Impacting Dog Owners
• Rhode Island Info: Hunting Regulations Restructuring Proposed
  • A detailed summary of the proposed rules may be viewed here.

February 2023

• NH Alert: Support Police K-9s at Hearing Next Tuesday, March 7.
• Iowa: Ask Committee to Support Ban on Insurance Breed Discrimination Tomorrow (3/1)
• Texas: Ask Your Lawmakers to Oppose Bills Subjecting Hobbyists to State Regulation
• Rockingham County, VA: Board of Supervisors Approves Commercial Dog Kennel Ordinance
• Illinois: Two Hearings Impact Dog Ownership TOMORROW (2/28)
• Virginia Update:  Session Ends with Dog Related Bills Left in Committee
• Oklahoma Update: Bill to Reduce Breeder Reporting Burden Approved by Senate 
• CT Alert: Oppose Lawyers for Animals and Request Fix on Ban of Reproduction Methods
• Montana Update on Bills Impacting Dog Owners
• South Carolina: Animal Forfeiture Bill In Hearing Tomorrow, Feb. 23: Take Action Now!
• CT Alert: Hearing Monday – Oppose Changes to Kennels and Domestic Animal Laws
• NH Update: Committee Rejects Changing Legal Status of Animals via Appointment of Guardians
• Washington State Update on Bills Impacting Dog Owners
• Utah Update: House Passes Breeder Bill With AKC Amendments
• URGENT!  South Carolina Bill S 456 Would Require Innocent Owners to Pay or Forfeit Their Animals
• U.S. Senate Update: AKC Lauds Introduction of Healthy Dog Importation Act to Protect Animal and Public Health
• Illinois:  Ask Committee to Oppose Bill Violating Dog Owners’ Property Rights
• Illinois: Ask Committee to Support Ban on Insurance Breed Discrimination 
• Utah Update: Amended Breeder Bill to Be Considered Tomorrow (2/16)
• Hawaii: Problematic Retail Sales Bans, Dogs in Vehicles Bills Set for Hearing Tomorrow. Contact Your Lawmakers
• Minnesota: Support Tenants’ Rights Bills Scheduled for Senate Committee Hearing
• Indiana: Senate Committee Passes Bill Protecting Pet Choice, Hobby Breeders
• New Jersey: Problematic Bill May Make Dewclaw Removal ‘Cruelty’; Contact Your Lawmakers
• Washington state Update:  Bills Impacting Dog Owners 
• Minnesota Bills Protect Dog-Owning Tenants’ Rights
• CT Alert: Hearing Thursday - Support Prohibiting Dog Breed Discrimination in Insurance Policies
• Oklahoma Bill to Reduce Breeder Reporting Burden Approved by Senate Committee
• Montana:  Committee Considering Proposed Expansion to Bird Dog Training Regulations
• Oregon: Oppose Pet Choice Restrictions at Public Hearing Monday, 2/13/2023
• Hearing Tomorrow: New Mexico Bill Establishes Database for Missing Pets
• CT Alert: Hearings on Multiple Bills Impacting Dog Owners Next Week
• Utah Update: Breeder Bill Held, Please Continue Contacting the Committee
• Illinois: Ask Committee to Oppose Animal Rights Court-Appointed “Lawyers for Dogs” Bill
• Oregon Update: Renewed Push for “Animal Cruelty” Ballot Measure – Do Not Sign!
• Utah: Hearing Tomorrow to Consider Regulation of All Dog Breeders
• Hawaii Alert: Contact Committee to Oppose House Version of Emotional Support Animal Bill with “Rights” Language
• Maine Alert: Committee Considers Preventing Dog Breed Discrimination by Insurance Companies
• CT Alert: Hearing Thursday on Protections for Police and Search & Rescue K-9s
• Florida Info: Hunting Regulations Update Proposed, Expands Hunting with Dogs

January 2023

• Oregon: Resolution to Protect Hunting to Be Considered on Thursday (2/2)
• Washington State Update: Bills Impacting Dog Owners 
• Teachable Moments Removed from APHIS Animal Welfare Inspection Guide
• Hawaii Alert: Contact Committee to Oppose Animal “Rights” Language in Emotional Support Animal Bill
• Missouri: Ask Committee to Support Bill Protecting Owners Rights for Confiscated Animals
• NH Alert: Hearing Tomorrow on Changing Legal Status of Animals, Oppose Appointing Guardians
• Colorado: New PACFA Regulations on Contingency Plans, Shelters and Rescues Requirements Proposed 
• Breaking: CDC Extends Suspension of Dog Imports from Countries Classified as High-Risk for Rabies
• Virginia Update: House Agriculture Sub Committee to Consider Dog Related Bills Tomorrow (1/25)
• Knoxville, TN: Vote Is Tuesday (1/24) on Animal Ordinance that Criminalizes Good Owners
• Washington: Bill Impacting Dog Ownership Rights to Be Considered January 25
• Indiana:  Thank Sponsors and Committees for Amendments Protecting Hobby Breeders, Pet Choice
• Virginia: House Agriculture Sub Committee to Consider Several Dog Related Bills Tomorrow (1/18)
• Washington: Bill Protecting Pets and Owners in Extreme Weather Advancing in House
• TX Regs Info: TDLR Finalizes Updates to Inspection Rules
• Federal Regulations: APHIS Proposes Environmental Enrichment Requirements for Dogs Regulated Under AWA

December 2022 

• Washington, DC: District Council Approves Proposal Impacting Dog Owners
• OH Update: Ohio Ag. Department Finalizes Rules for High Volume Breeders, Pet Shops, Dog Brokers
• New York Governor Signs AKC-Supported Bills 
• New York Update: Governor Signs Retail Pet Store Sales Ban
• Washington, DC: District Council Considering Proposal Impacting Dog Owners on 12/20
• NJ Alert: ‘Residential Kennels’ Licensing, Regulation Bill Filed – Express Concerns to Legislators Today!
• LA UPDATE: St. Landry Parish Council Vote on Bad Animal Ordinance Carried Over to 12/21/22
• Nashville/Davidson Co., TN: Council Vote on Animal Ordinance Carried Over to January 17, 2023
• US Congress: AR Groups Are Making Year End Push on Arbitrary One-Size-Fits-All Breeder Regulation – Contact Your Members of US Congress and Senate Today
• OK Breeder Alert: Troublesome Regulations Proposed for State Licensees
• Nashville/Davidson Co., TN: Second Vote on Revised Proposed Animal Ordinance is Tuesday, 12/6/22

November 2022

• LA UPDATE: St. Landry Parish Council to Vote on Bad Animal Ordinance Wed. 11/16—Take Action TODAY!
• Kansas: Wichita Animal Services Advisory Board to Discuss Mandatory Spay/Neuter on 11/16
• St. Landry Parish, LA: Overreaching Animal Ordinance Could be Voted on Next Week, 11/16/22
• Texas: San Marcos Considers Mandatory Spay/Neuter and Pet Store Ban
• TX Regs Info: TDRL Proposes Updates to Inspection Rules
• U.S. Congress: Join AKC in Urging Appropriators and Leadership to Oppose Mandates that Limit Breeder Education and Undermine Animal Welfare

October 2022 

• TN Info: Johnson City “Animal Rights” Seminar Scheduled Nov. 1
• Delaware Update: Governor Signs Bill Allowing for Compensatory Damages
• Texas: Contact New Braunfels City Council to Oppose Pet Store Ordinance
• Rockingham County, VA Update: Board of Supervisors to Discuss New Kennel Regulations
• Maryland Informational Update: New Laws Impacting Dog Owners Now in Effect
• MA Info: Fisheries and Wildlife Proposes Updated Field Trial Rules

September 2022 

• Rockingham County, VA Update: Board of Supervisors Table Action on New Kennel Regulations 
• California: Governor Signs Bills Additional Animal Welfare Bills
• Rockingham County, VA: Board of Supervisors to Hold Public Hearing on New Kennel Regulations
• NJ Alert: Montclair to Consider Pet Store Restrictions
• U.S. Congress: Join AKC in Urging Appropriators to Support Education and Collaboration to Improve Animal Welfare
• Share Your Thoughts on AKC GR’s Communications
• California: Governor Signs Amended Training Bill
• Kansas: Augusta Considering Repealing Breed Ban
• ND Update: Minot Repeals Breed Ban
• California: Training Bill with AKC Amendments Heads to Governor
• California Wrap-Up: Former “Bill of Rights” Fails, Training Bill Approved With AKC Amendments
   

August 2022

• California Update: Senate Approves Trainer Disclosure Bill
• Terrorism experts, dog breeders gather to reverse shortage of domestic bomb sniffing dogs
• Virginia Information: Nelson Co. Board of Supervisors Approves New Kennel Definition
• California Update: Senate Further Amends Training Disclosure Bill
• California Info: Senate Considering Bill Requiring Emergency Preparedness Plans for Kennels
• California Update: Latest Status on Dog-Related Bills
• Nelson County, VA: Board of Supervisors to Hold Public Hearing on Kennel Definition
• MA UPDATE: Anti-Hobby Breeder Bill Fails - Congrats Advocates, You Did It!
   

July 2022

• USDA APHIS Announces It Will No Longer Use ‘Teachable Moments’ In Working With Breeders
• Kansas Update: Wichita Animal Advisory Board Approves Ordinance Limiting Pet Choice
• NJ Update: Mullica Township Removes Animal Ordinance from Agenda
• Oregon Information: 2022 Firearms Ballot Measure May Impact Some Performance Events Participants
• Rockingham County, VA: Request Delay of Consideration of New Kennel Regulations
• NJ Alert: Mullica Twp. Considering Hobby Breeder Licensing, Ownership Limits on Monday
• South Carolina: Two-Year Legislative Session Ends with Wins for Dogs and Dog Owners
• Kansas: Wichita Animal Advisory Board to Consider Limiting Pet Choice Tomorrow (7/20)
• Rockingham County, VA: Planning Commission Considering New Kennel Regulations
• Warren County, TN: Spay/Neuter Law for Dogs and Cats Proposed
• Oregon: Petitions Circulating for “Animal Cruelty” Ballot Measure – Do Not Sign!
• URGENT: MA Senate Hurriedly Passed Bill to Take Away Personal Kennel Protections – Contact Lawmakers Today!
• IL Info: Amended Animal Welfare Act Regulations Scheduled For Adoption 
• Delaware Update:  Bill Allowing for Compensatory Damages Passes General Assembly 

June 2022

• Florida 2022 Legislative Session Review: Numerous Victories for Dogs
• California Update: Senate Committee to Consider Two Dog-Related Bills Next Week
• Pennsylvania:  Committee to Consider “Dog Law Modernization Act” Tomorrow  
• Pennsylvania: Senate Approves New Animal Welfare Board with AKC, Club Representation
• Florida: A Victory for Retired Police K-9s 
• Michigan Update: Bills Regarding Costs of Care Advance to Senate Floor
• Red Bay, AL: Pit Bull Ban Proposed
• MA Action Alert: Oppose Restrictions on Responsible Dog Ownership, Training and Breeding!
• California Update:  Hearings Scheduled for Dog-Related Bills
• Nashville/Davidson Co., TN Update: Animal Ordinance Withdrawn—Could Be Re-Filed 
• Nashville/Davidson Co., TN: Pet Limits, Overreaching Requirements on 2nd Vote TOMORROW
• New York Wrap-Up: Retail Ban Passes, but Many Victories for Dog Owners
• Pinellas County, FL: Public Hearing on Pet Seller Ordinance Scheduled for June 7
• Wisconsin Update: Department Approves Fee Increases for Licensed Breeders
• Tennessee’s Two-year Legislative Session Ends with Wins for Dogs and Dog Owners
• Tennessee: Bill to Protect Police, Fire, Search-and-Rescue, and Service Dogs Enacted!
• NY Senate Passes Debarking Ban – Call the Assembly Today!
• Michigan: Bills Impacting Dog Ownership Rights to Be Considered June 14
• VT Update: Provision Ensuring Domestic Animal Welfare Signed by Governor Scott! 

May 2022

• RI Alert: Express Support Now for Bill Protecting Police K9s, Hearing This Week
• California Update: Bills Impacting Dog Owners
• New York: Bills Restricting “Debarking”, Pet Choice Still Pending – Call Today! 
• Breaking Regulatory Update: CDC Extends Import Restrictions, Allows More Imports
• California Update: Training Disclosure Bill Scheduled for June 13 Hearing
• Arizona: Governor Signs Two Bills Benefitting Dogs, Dog Owners – Thank the Bill Sponsor!
• New York Assembly to Likely Vote on Bill Limiting Pet Choice, Breed Rescue TODAY – Call Now!
• California Info: Assembly Considering Bill Requiring Emergency Preparedness Plans for Kennels
• New York:  Bills Regulating Shelters, Importation Advancing
• VT Update: Provision Ensuring Domestic Animal Welfare Advances to Governor’s Desk
• RI Info: Bill Eliminating Tax on Pet Services Gets Hearing
• Arizona: Bill Limiting Insurance Breed Discrimination Heading to Governor
• NY Senate to Vote on “Debarking” Ban – Call Today!
• NY Update: Assembly to Consider Hunting Bill With AKC Amendments 
• NJ Success: East Amwell Township Does Not Advance Animal Ordinance Proposal
• Rhode Island Update: “Cost of Care or Forfeit Animals” Bill – Amendments Adopted!
• Dallas City Council Approves Pet Store Ordinance
• Delaware Update: Sponsor Removes Non-Economic Damages Language from Bill
• Bills Limiting Pet Choice, Breed Rescue Continue to Advance – Call the Assembly Today!
• Connecticut Legislative Session Adjourns: Summary of Bills Impacting Dog Owners
• NJ Alert: East Amwell Township to Consider Problematic Animal Control Proposal
• New York Update: Bills Impacting Dog Owners To Be Considered As Soon As Tomorrow
• ME Update: CONGRATULATIONS! State Commits to Increasing Veterinary Workforce
• Rhode Island Alert: “Lawyers for Animals” Bill to be Heard on May 12, 2022 – Express Opposition Today!
• California Update on Bills Impacting Dog Owners
• Kentucky’s Legislative Session Ends with Wins for Dog Owners
• Texas: Contact Dallas City Council to Oppose Pet Store Ordinance 
• New York:  Bill Limiting Pet Choice, Breed Rescue Advancing – Contact Your State Senator
• VT Alert: ACT NOW to Ensure That Domestic Animal Protections Advance
• Montgomery AL Update: Vote on Problematic Animal Ordinance on Agenda TOMORROW, 5/3/22
• Delaware: Committee to Consider Non-Economic Damages Bills on Wednesday – Act Now!
• Arizona: Ask Governor to Support Bill Regarding Microchipping, Lost Dog Recovery 

April 2022

• New York: Senate Committee Considering Limiting Pet Choice, Breeder Rescue on Tuesday
• NH Update: House Committee Addresses Concerns in Senate Bill Regarding Pet Vendor Licenses
• CT Update: Bill Creating Workgroup to Discuss Kennel and Dog License Changes Passes House
• CA: “Rights” Officially Removed from “Dog and Cat Bill of Rights” –  Please Thank the Author and Chairman
• California Update:  Assembly to Vote on Amended Training Bill
• RI Update: Bill Protecting Police K9s Released Favorably from Committee!
• ME Update: Bill Increasing ME Veterinary Workforce Passes and Moves to Governor’s Desk 
• California: AB 1881 Sponsor Agrees to Remove Animal ‘Rights’ from ‘Bill of Rights’
• Rhode Island Action Alert: “Cost of Care or Forfeit Animals” Bill to be Heard on April 27, 2022 – Request Amendments!
• California: Pet ‘Bill of Rights’ Amended But Concerns Remain, Contact Assembly Committee
• Oklahoma Update: Bill Creating Misdemeanor for Misrepresenting Service Animal Amended
• California Update: Training Bill to be Significantly Amended
• ME Update: ACT TODAY to Support Bill Increasing ME Veterinary Workforce!
• Oklahoma: Ask Your State Representative to Support Bill to Stop Misrepresentation of Service Dogs
• Maryland Update: Dogs Outdoors and Bond for Care Bills Pass General Assembly, Head to Governor
• Montgomery AL Update: Continued Opposition Needed to Overreaching City Animal Ordinance. Act Now!
• Georgia’s 2021-2022 Legislative Session Ends with Wins for Dogs and Dog Owners
• California: Submit Written Comments Opposing Dog and Cat Bill of Rights by Tuesday (4/19)
• ME Update: Bill Increasing ME Veterinary Workforce Is On the MOVE- Call Your State Senator!
• Illinois: Session Adjourns With Major Victories for Dogs, Dog Owners
• Pennsylvania: Ask Senate to Support Bill Establishing New Animal Welfare Board
• NH Update: ACT NOW! House Hearing Scheduled on Tuesday for Bill Concerning Pet Vendor Licenses 
• California:  Reminder – Submit Comments To Committee By April 12 on Harmful Dog Training Proposal
• Montgomery AL: Vote on Overreaching Animal Ordinance Delayed to 4/19, Continued Opposition Needed!
• USDA APHIS 2021 Impact Report Released, Highlights Animal Welfare Successes
• Regs. Info: Arkansas Fish and Game Proposes Updates to General Hunting Regulations
• Georgia Recognizes May 1, 2022, as Purebred Dog Day
• Texas Regulatory Info: Seats Available on Texas Licensed Breeders Advisory Committee
• Louisiana Info: AKC Recommends Bill Amendments to Help Ensure Prosecution of Cruelty Offenses
• ME Update: Bill Increasing ME Veterinary Workforce Needs Your Help!
• Montgomery AL: Vote Is TUE (4/5) on Animal Breeder/Trainer/Seller Permits, Expanded Cruelty Offenses
• CT Update: Kennel and Dog License Changes to be Discussed Further
• California: Update on Bills Impacting Dog Owners 

March 2022

• Arizona: Ask Your State Senator to Support Insurance and Microchipping Bills
• CT Info: Bills Designating Shelter Pets as State Pet and for Tethering and Sheltering Dogs Advance
• California: Bill Regulating All Dog Trainers As Boarding Facilities Scheduled for Hearing – Call Today!
• Tennessee Alerts Updates: Take Action on Bills that Could INCREASE Risk of Harm to Dogs
• VT Update: Bill Establishing Public Safety Agency with Domestic Animal Protections Voted Favorably by Senate
• Arizona: Two Bills Benefitting Dog Owners Continue to Advance – Express Your Support!
• Maryland: House Committee to Hear Senate Bill Regulating Dogs Outdoors. Call Now!
• California: Bill Would Require Emergency Preparedness Plans for Kennels
• NJ Update: Senate Passed S.981, Bill Now in Assembly
• Illinois: Urgent: “Lawyers for Dogs” Bill On House Floor – Call Today!
• California: Ask Committee to Oppose Dog and Cat Bill of Rights
• New Jersey: Forfeiture of Dogs Bill (S. 981) Scheduled for Vote, Contact State Senators to Oppose
• CT Info: Hearing March 25th Making Designation of the Shelter Pet as CT’s State Pet
• Oregon: Radical Animal Rights Ballot Initiative Campaign Postponed Until 2024
• AL Bill Allowing Dog Seizure on “Suspicion” of Harassing Livestock Passes Committee, Amendments Pending
• Maryland Update: Ask Senate to Vote No on Bill Regulating Dogs Outdoors. Call Your Senator Now!
• Kansas Update: Bill to Establish New Pet Animal Inspection Division Heard, No Vote Taken
• Arizona Update:  Bill Prohibiting Insurance Breed Discrimination Passes the House
• VT Alert: Express Support for Bill Establishing Public Safety Agency with Domestic Animal Protections
• California Information: Microchip, Pet Theft Bill Scheduled for Hearing on March 29
• Alabama Bill Authorizing Confiscation of Dogs on “Suspicion” of Harassing Livestock in Committee Tomorrow A.M. (3/17)
• Arizona: Two Bills Benefitting Dog Owners are Advancing – Express Your Support Today!
• Tennessee Action Alert: Act NOW to Oppose TWO Overreaching and Harmful Anti-Tethering Bills
• NJ Update: Senate Committee Takes Action on Two Canine Forfeiture Bills
• Kansas to Consider New Pet Animal Inspection Division on Thursday, March 17
• Rhode Island Update: “Lawyers for Animals” Bill Held for Further Study
• CT Update: Bill Concerning Tethering and Sheltering of Dogs Given Favorable Report
• Virginia Information Update: Fauquier County to Consider Kennel Licensing Amendments on March 17
• CO Regulatory Info: PACFA Rules to Include Disclosure Requirements for Pet Stores, Other Licensees
• Ohio Regulations: Amendments to Rules Impacting High Volume Breeders, Pet Stores, and Dog Brokers Proposed
• New York – Ask Your Lawmakers to Support Further Protections Against Insurance Breed Discrimination
• Maryland: House Committee to Vote on Non-Economic Damages Bills – Act Now!
• NJ Alert: Bills That Fail to Protect Ownership Interests Scheduled for March 14 Hearing – Express Opposition Today!
• Maryland: Act Now to Oppose SB 877 Impacting Your Dog Ownership Rights!
• KY Action Alert: Senate Meets at 4:00 TODAY (3/7), Act NOW to Oppose Animal Forfeiture Bill
• Rhode Island Action Alert: “Lawyers for Animals” Bill to be Heard on March 10, 2022 – Express Opposition Today!
• New York: Hearing on Monday (3/7) for More Protections Against Insurance Breed Discrimination
• Maryland Update: Senate Committee Passes Bill Regulating Dogs Outdoors. Call Your Senator!
• Kentucky: Express Opposition NOW to Fast-Moving, Problematic Cost of Care Bill
• CT Alert: Hearing March 7th Concerning Kennel and Dog Licenses
• Texas: New Braunfels Animal Advisory Board to Consider Pet Store Regulations
• Oklahoma: Misdemeanor for Misrepresenting a Service Animal Bill Passes Senate
• US Congress: Harmful, Arbitrary Breeder Mandates Bill Gaining Support – Contact Your Representatives
• Georgia: Potentially Problematic Tethering Proposal to be Considered by Legislative Committee Tomorrow, March 2
• Missouri Update: Bill Prohibiting Breed Discrimination to be considered TOMORROW (3/2)
• Utah: Ask Legislature to Support Working Dogs, Dog Shows – Call Today!
• Tennessee: Take Action to Oppose Unfavorably Amended Tethering Bill

February 2022

• Florida Alert:  Urge Your State Legislators to Support Breed Neutral Dog Bill
• CT Alert: Support Bills on Service Animals and Penalties for Intentionally Injuring Working K9s
• Maryland:  House and Senate Committees to Consider Non-Economic Damages Bills – Act Now!
• Montgomery AL: Animal Ordinance Meeting TOMORROW, 2/24 - Animal Owners Urged to Attend
• Voices of Tennessee Dog Owners Are Heard! Support for Working Dog Protections Needed
• Missouri: Bill Prohibiting Breed Discrimination Heading to Rules Committee – Call Today
• MN Update: Companion Animal Board Bill Scheduled for Hearing This Friday, 2/25
• CT Info: Hearing February 25th Concerning Tethering and Sheltering of Dogs
• Missouri House Local Government Committee to Hear Breed Specific Legislation Again
• Tennessee: Act Now on Potentially Troublesome Doghouse Bill; Support Police, Working Dog Protections
• Washington, DC: District Council Considering Proposal Impacting Dog Owners on 2/28
• Maryland: Act Now to Oppose HB 1062 Impacting Your Dog Ownership Rights!
• California Update: AKC Monitoring Multiple Bills Impacting Dog Owners
• Regulatory Info: FDA Looking for Public Input on Antimicrobial Use Practices in Companion Animals
• Maryland: House Committee to Vote on Bill Regulating Dogs Outdoors Tomorrow (2/18) – Call Now!
• NJ Update: Lawyers for Dogs Bill Amended, Passed by Committee
• MA Success: Governor Baker Signs Bill Protecting Police K-9s, aka Nero’s Law!
• Update: Massachusetts’ Joint Judiciary Committee Reports on Animal Bills
• Oppose Hollywood, FL Ordinance that Criminalizes Good Animal Owners - Meeting on 2/16
• Arizona: Ask Committee to Support Ban on Insurance Breed Discrimination on Wednesday (2/16)
• Virginia: Update - Pet Shop Spay/Neuter Bill Continued Until 2023
• Oklahoma: Ask Senate to Support Misdemeanor for Misrepresenting a Service Animal Bill
• NJ Action Alert: Committee to Consider Radical Lawyer for Dogs Bill on Monday, Feb. 14- Call Today!
• Tennessee Informational Alert: Tethering Bill on Subcommittee Agenda Tomorrow, 2/9/22
• Kentucky: A Bill Dog Lovers Can Support—the Treeing Walker Coonhound for State Dog
• Minnesota: Proposed Creation of Companion Animal Board to Regulate Kennels
• MA Success: Bill Protecting Police K-9s, aka Nero’s Law, Sent to Governor’s Desk for Signature
• Virginia: Senate ACNR Committee to Consider Pet Shop Spay/Neuter Bill Tomorrow (2/8)
• MA Success: Bill Protecting Police K-9s, aka Nero’s Law, Passes in House
• Missouri: Ask Committee to Support Bill Protecting Owners Rights for Confiscated Animals
• Florida: Urge Subcommittee to Advance Breed Neutral Dog Bill
• RI Alert: Act Now to Protect Police K9s – Public Hearing Scheduled for February 3, 2022!
• Virginia: House Agriculture Sub Committee to Consider Bill Impacting Animal Cruelty Warrants
• Maine Alert: Committee Considers Scholarships to Increase Veterinary Workforce on Thursday

January 2022

• Texas: San Marcos Considering Prohibiting Pet Stores from Selling Dogs from Breeders on 2/1
• VA: Update on Bills Regarding Civil Liability Related to Dangerous Dogs and Rabies Vaccine Exemption
• Missouri Update: Continue Encouraging Committee to Support Breed-Neutral Laws
• NH Update: Bills Negatively Impacting Hunting Dogs Fail in Committees
• Illinois: Bills Impacting Animal Ownership, Other Dog Issues to be Considered on Tuesday (2/1)
• Virginia: Senate Subcommittee to Consider Pet Shop Spay/Neuter Bill Tomorrow (1/27)
• Missouri Update: Ask Committee to Not Support Spay/Neuter Amendments to Positive BSL Bills
• Virginia Information: House Agriculture Sub Committee to Consider Two Dog Bills Tomorrow (1/26)
• Rhode Island Alert: House Judiciary to Hear Bills Affecting Dog Owners Tomorrow, January 25
• NH Alert: Multiple Bill Hearings Concerning to Dog Owners Scheduled Next Week
• Missouri: Ask Committee to Support Bills Banning Breed-Specific Laws
• NH Alert: January 25th Committee Vote on Bill Banning Training of Hunting Dogs and Field Trials
• Florida: Updates and Advocacy Opportunities for Bills that Affect Dog Owners
• Maryland: Senate Committee to Hear Bill Regulating Dogs Outdoors on January 19 – Act Now!
• California: AB 702 Officially Dead – Please Thank the Committee Today!
• Maryland: House Committee to Hear Bill Regulating Dogs Outdoors Tomorrow (1/13) – Call Now!
• Florida Informational Alert: Committee to Consider Pet Store Regulatory Bill Tomorrow (1/11/22)
• Texas Regulatory Info: Seats Available on Texas Licensed Breeders Advisory Committee
• NH Alert: Hearing Scheduled on Bill Concerning Pet Vendor Licenses

2021 Legislative Alerts 

2020 Legislative Alerts 

2019 Legislative Alerts 

2018 Legislative Alerts 

2017 Legislative Alerts 

2016 Legislative Alerts 

2015 Legislative Alerts