As we prepared to push this bill once more next legislative session, we are working on a local level to prevent the spread of unscrupulous pet stores.
At the end of January, we had the honor of testifying in favor of the Humane Pet Sales Bill in the House Consumer Protection and Business Committee. Though the bill ultimately did not make it out of committee this year, we are incredibly hopeful for its future after hearing wave of support from activists, everyday citizens, and legislators alike. The committee expressed a desire to learn more about the complexities of the issue of animal mills, and Pasado’s Safe Haven, the Humane Society of America, and Bailing Out Benji collectively presented a strong case against unethical pet store practices. They, alongside us, will continue to fight for this piece of legislation, which Representative Amy Walen has committed to sponsor. With the knowledge that we will not be seeing a state-wide passage this session, we are currently pursuing local avenues to pass the bill. This locally preventative work, while not an end-all solution, allows us to protect as many animals and consumers as possible in our state while we continue working towards our ultimate goal. Pet stores selling puppies and kittens from mills have begun to expand, with the notable opening of Puppyland in Olympia a month prior that was quickly banned by the addition of Chapter 6.01 into city law. Additionally, this past month, we drove out to visit Pasado’s Safe Haven to shoot an interview encouraging youth advocacy for animals. We are immensely grateful to have had this opportunity and were utterly blown away by the amazing facility! We spoke thoroughly with Pasado’s about our next steps in legislation and are so appreciative of their support in our efforts. Thank you all for your continued support of our work in all its avenues! We are sincerely looking forward to a 2020 full of legislative advocacy, both locally and on the state level. Olympia, WA 01/31/2020-02/19/2020
0 Comments
|