ARL Advocates for Several Bills at MA State House
State House testimony in favor of bills to establish boarding kennel regulations; maintain stable housing for pet families in economic crisis
The Massachusetts State House saw a flurry of activity this past month, as the State Legislature wrapped up the month of September by holding hearings on a number of bills to help animals in the Commonwealth, and the Animal Rescue League of Boston’s (ARL) Advocacy team was at the forefront of testimony to encourage legislators to take action on several bills to further protect animals in the Commonwealth.
Ollie’s Law
Ollie’s Law Coalition at the MA State House.
The Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government held a hearing on several animal related bills, including Ollie’s Law filed by Representative Brian Ashe (H.2019) and Senator Mark Montigny (S.1309).
ARL testified in support of this crucial legislation, which would provide minimum standards for kennels across the Commonwealth, including pet boarding and daycare facilities and breeders.
ARL was joined in testimony in support of these measures by members of the Ollie’s Law Coalition, including several pet parents who tragically lost their dogs at these facilities.
ARL has long been a vocal advocate for regulations of kennels, including our Board Safely Campaign. While these facilities are not subject to care and housing requirements, we recommend the public use our checklist to determine if a facility is right for you and your pet.
Learn more at: https://www.arlboston.org/board-safely/
ARL testifying at the MA State House.
Supporting Pet Families in Economic Crisis
The Joint Committee on Housing held a hearing that included An Act to maintain stable housing for families with pets in an economic crisis and beyond filed by Representatives Rogers and Montaño (H.1367) and Senator Gobi (S.876).
These bills would help pets and people stay together by ending breed-based discrimination in insurance and housing.
Breed based discrimination is not based in data and relies on outdated attitudes around breeds that are perceived to be dangerous.
Housing is overwhelmingly a barrier to families staying with their pets, and ARL was joined by many advocates who told their stories of how this has impacted them.
Get Involved
The Massachusetts Legislature will continue to hold hearings on bills on ARL’s Legislative Agenda and encourage anyone who is passionate about protecting animals throughout the state to become involved.
Have questions or want to get involved? Contact advocacy@arlboston.org for more information.