Legislative Efforts
The Director of Field Services works with local and regional humane organizations and other agencies to develop and strengthen legislation to protect animals.
We urge you to voice your support on animal legislation by contacting your legislators. Your opinions matter to your lawmakers! To find out which NH state representatives and senators represent you, and how to contact them, click on www.gencourt.state.nh.us/whosmyleg.
Among the bills being considered by the current legislature:
House Bill 1624 - An act relative to the care and treatment of dogs by breeders within the state
This bill, if passed, would provide for more stringent standards for commercial dog breeders. It would apply to anyone with more than 10 intact dogs, not hobby breeders or dog enthusiasts. Further, it would specifically empower the Department of Agriculture to authorize humane society or SPCA agents and animal control officers to investigate complaints persuant to this section. Current law regulating licensed breeders puts the burden of enforcement on the State Veterinarian's Office, and this change could effectually increase enforcement of regulations without increasing the demands on an already overburdened state office.
A public hearing on this bill is scheduled for 1 PM, Thursday, January 21, 2010 before the House Environment and Agriculture Committee in Room 308 of the Legislative Offices Building in Concord.
PLEASE HELP US SUPPORT HB 1624.
House Bill 1639 - An act relative to the tethering of dogs
This bill, if passed, would limit the number of hours within a 24-hour period that a dog can be tied, or tethered. It would also place requirements on the length, size, and structure of any tether used to tie a dog during the allotted time. Dog owners who keep their dogs tied for more than 14 hours, and/or who use inappropriate or dangerous tethering methods, could be charged with animal cruelty. This bill would give animal control officers and humane agents the power to improve the lives of backyard dogs who currently live 24 hours a day on chains.
A public hearing on this bill is scheduled for 11:30 AM, Wednesday, January 20, 2010 before the House Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee in Room 204 of the Legislative Officers Building in Concord.
PLEASE HELP US SUPPORT HB 1639.
Consider attending committee hearings on these bills to show your support. You may speak in person, provide written testimony, or simply sign in as supporting the legislation. Your presence really can make a difference for New Hampshire's animals!
Whether or not you are able to attend the public hearings, PLEASE contact your Representatives and Senator to voice your opinion of pending legislation, especially if they serve on the committee assigned the bill.
