OHIO: DAL Delayed

The long awaited Dangerous Animal Legislation bill expected to be introduced yesterday has been delayed, USARK was contacted by Senator Troy Balderson's Office indicating that the bill was still in drafting. There had been a hearing scheduled today in the Senate Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee, but that hearing has been cancelled. The bill could be introduced as early as next week; but more likely towards the end of the month do to the impending recess of the Ohio General Assembly. When more information is available regarding the introduction of the bill, and subsequent committee hearing, USARK will make that information available. Stay tuned. No bill has been introduced, and no hearing has been scheduled.



VIRGINIA: Bills Carried Over

Stakeholders and USARK members working in concert in Virginia brought much pressure to bear on two companion bills (HB1242 & SB477) in the VA House and Senate. Special thanks to Dr. Kerri Cooper-Baily, David Means, Jared Watts and others for arranging face to face member meetings opposing both bills. USARK supported that effort with a large letter writing campaign, as well as engaging bill sponsors and committee members behind the scenes. As of now both HB1242 & SB477 have been carried over until 2013. Neither of these bills will receive further consideration in 2012. Congratulations VA for educating the General Assembly as to the many problems these legislative proposals pose to VA hobbyists and small businesses. Stay vigilant. These bills may resurface in 2013. Job well done!



RHODE ISLAND: S2033 Goes to Committee

There will be a hearing before the RI Senate Committee on Environment & Agriculture Wednesday February 15th at the rise of the Senate in Rm 211 of The State House, 82 Smith St. Providence, RI. This hearing will be to consider, and potentially vote on, S2033 Act Relating to Animals. There could be a vote on this bill which could adversely impact reptile ownership in the state. If you own reptiles in RI please make every effort to be present and testify at this important hearing. Andrew Wyatt, USARK CEO, will testify on behalf of USARK members. We need as many people as possible to attend this hearing. There has already been a ground swell of opposition to the bill engineered by USARK in a large letter writing campaign. Decisions made at this hearing could be crucial to the future of reptile ownership in RI. Oppose S2033!



Questions: president@usark.org

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