Hello supporters,

Yesterday, House Bill 1552 (the duplicate tethering/weather bill that was less protective) was conformed to Senate Bill 272 and passed through the Senate Agricultural Committee with a vote of 8-5. 

HB 1552 now reads as follows:

Tethering animals; adequate shelter and space. Provides that outdoor tethering of an animal that is not actively engaged in conduct related to an agricultural activity does not meet the requirement that an animal be given adequate shelter if it occurs (i) between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.; (ii) when no owner is on the property; (iii) when the temperature is 32 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, or 85 degrees Fahrenheit or higher; (iv) during a heat advisory; or (v) during a severe weather warning. The bill increases certain minimum tether length requirements to meet the requirement that an animal be given adequate space by requiring that a tether be at least 15 feet in length or four times the length of the animal, whichever is greater. Current law requires the tether to be at least 10 feet in length or three times the length of the animal, whichever is greater.

There was only one bit of language removed in the process: The bill also authorizes the governing body of any locality to adopt, and make more stringent, ordinances that parallel certain state provisions related to care of companion animals.

But, that's okay. This is still a MAJOR step forward for Virginia's animals.

Here's what happens next:

The Bill will move to the Senate floor (most likely tomorrow) and will go through a few readings into early next week. We're expecting it to pass, but there is still some work to be done in terms of crafting the FINAL Bill language. I have some great colleagues who are heavily involved in that process.

I will update you further when we know more. As always, thank you for your continued support.

Gary