On May 7, 2021, the Vermont House of Representatives agreed to changes made by the Senate to House Bill 421 and voted it favorably. Supported by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Vermont Federation of Dog Clubs (VT Federation), House Bill 421 as passed by the House and Senate, is on its way to Governor Scott’s desk!
In summary, the bill would (1) narrow the list of individuals authorized as “humane officers” who investigate cases of animal cruelty and (2) mandate the completion of trainings approved by the Animal Cruelty Investigation Advisory Board (“Board”).
VOICE YOUR SUPPORT FOR AMENDED HB 421 TODAY: AKC strongly encourages those who reside in Vermont to immediately email Governor Scott and ask him to “sign House Bill 421 into law”! First, click on the Governor’s contact webpage here. Second, complete the message form with your information and select “public safety” under “message subject”. Last, in the comment box share with the Governor that it is important for animal control officers to have training, oversight, and accountability when enforcing state laws.
For more information on these or other legislative issues in Vermont, contact AKC’s Government Relations Department at 919-816-3720 or doglaw@akc.org.