Yesterday, the Massachusetts House Ways and Means Committee released an omnibus clean energy re-drafted bill, H. 4876, and requested members file their amendments. Among more than 100 amendments filed for consideration during debate today, Amendment #5 mirrors an amendment filed last month that would remove dogs and cats from the definition of livestock. This change attempts to overturn a legal case in which an agricultural town sued a resident to stop breeding dogs on her property. The town claimed that the kennel was operated in violation of its zoning laws; however, a superior court judge ruled that the breeder’s kennel was an agricultural business and exempt from the town’s zoning laws. The judge also classified the breeder’s dogs as livestock. Dogs are often considered livestock by farmers in recognition of their guarding, hunting, and herding functions.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) encourages Massachusetts residents to contact their member of the House of Representatives immediately regarding any concerns.
WHAT YOU CAN DO:
Massachusetts residents are encouraged to fill in this form to identify your state representative. Click on their name for their phone number and call their office noting your concerns about Amendment #5 to H. 4876.
AKC Government Relations (GR) will continue to provide updates on Massachusetts legislation as developments warrant. For more information on this or other legislative issues in Massachusetts, contact AKC GR at 919-816-3720 or doglaw@akc.org; or the Massachusetts Federation of Dog Clubs and Responsible Dog Owners at info@massfeddogs.org.