Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/historic-dc-animal-rights-bill/
Washington, D.C. is on the verge of updating their animal protection laws. The Animal Care and Control Omnibus Amendment Act passed both the first and second round of voting. It is the final stages of review and is being called a “historic” bill for addressing so many key issues regarding animal rights.
The bill includes not one or two but seven important changes. When passed, the following will become law to protect animals in the area.
- Animal control vehicles will have lights and sirens they can use during life threatening emergencies
- Washington Humane Society will be reimbursed for any costs of boarding or caring for a pet during a pending criminal investigation
- Ban dogfighting tools and equipment
- Ban sexual contact with animals
- Prohibit cat declawing
- Ban the sale of dogs, cats, and turtles in pet stores and only allow animals from rescues
- Address pet ownership in divorce cases
The last provision of the bill allows a judge to decide the custody of a pet based on what is in the pet’s best interest. This may mean sole or joint custody. Pets will no longer be viewed as a piece of property but as an individual.
Councilmember Mary. M Cheh, Charles Allen, Janeese Lewis George, Brianne K. Nadeau, and Brooke Pinto along with support from local veterinarians and animal advocacy groups introduced the bill last December. In the letter written to Secretary Nyasha Smith, Cheh wrote, “Being one of the most prosperous and progressive communities in the country, the District of Columbia should embrace any and every opportunity to adopt a compassion-based approach to animal management and care, and this legislation brings the District to the forefront once again.”
The last steps to make the bill a law are the approval and signature of Mayor Muriel Bowser and a congressional review. It was a unanimous “yes” by all councilmembers at the final vote on Tuesday.
The Humane Society of the United States is already calling it a win. They posted, “BIG win for animals in our nation’s capital today! Thank you to all D.C. animal lovers who joined us in this effort and called your council members.”
Animal lovers rejoiced at the news and hope the entire country passes similar laws.
“It’s a step in the right direction. Well done 👍🏻 🐾🐈🥰 Cruelty should not be allowed anywhere ever!!! I hope all States follow suit,” commented one person.
You can help be a voice for the voiceless by signing the petition below to help save cats from cruel declawing.
Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog
