By Anna Cooke, Editor of The New Barker dog magazine.
What is Humane Lobby Day? It’s the biggest day of the year for animals and animal advocates. The annual national event is sponsored by the Humane Society of the United States. Citizen animal advocates gather, at the state level, to learn and practice lobbying protection laws in each state. The full-day event includes a lobbying workshop and an overview of relevant bills in your state legislature. Appointments are made for you with the legislatures who represent you. You will be given specific talking points for visiting with the legislators and/or their staff, face to face, and ask them for their animal-friendly votes.
When and where is Florida’s Humane Lobby Day? March 12, Florida State Capital; Challenger Learning Center, 200 South Duval Street, Tallahassee. 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (9a-Noon/workshop and lunch; 1p-4p appointments with legislatures).
What legislation will we be discussing? Two bills of particular interest to The New Barker dog magazine: Strengthening the penalty for killing a K9 Officer: SB 96, HB 67. And, puppy mills – specifically stopping the importation of puppies from puppy mills. Florida is one of the leading states importing puppies and kittens that are used to stock retail stores. There are about 65 ordinances in Florida currently banning the retail sales of cats/ dogs and this number is growing. However, the preemption bills that have been considered in the legislature would remove those 65 ordinances and prevent any future ordinances form being passed. So we are fighting the efforts to preempt pet retail sales bans and educate our legislators about this issue. There has not been a preemption bill introduced yet this year, but the opposition (Petland) will likely try to amend it to a bill that’s moving, just as they did late in the session, last year. We have defeated them for three years now and will continue to fight it. But many of our legislators are not aware of this important aspect of preemption. This is why we need your vote and your voice.
What should I do to prepare? No prior experience is required to get involved. The goal of the workshop is to educate you on the bills and provide the support you’ll need to make the largest impact. It is helpful to know who your legislatures are before going into a meeting with them. Most elected officials have a website. Also check out these two nonpartisan political organizations, each one encouraging informed and active participation in government: League of Humane Voters – Florida Chapter and League of Women Voters – Florida Chapter.
Find your federal legislators at this link by typing in your zip code.
You may also want to read more about Petland’s attempts to stop the banning of puppy mill sales in pet stores at the local level. Chief lobbyist for Petland pushing for legislation that would strip Florida cities of their right to regulate local pet stores.
Can I partner with a friend so I’m not alone? It’s a great idea to bring friends and family to Humane Lobby Day. A large turnout creates a powerful voice for the animals.
What should I wear? Dress professionally to meet with legislators. A business suit or slacks/skirt and a jacket are appropriate. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes; bring an umbrella and a photo I.D.
RSVP Today by filling out this form. There is an $8 registration fee which will cover the cost of your lunch and materials.
This is an amazing opportunity to meet with like-minded people from across Florida; to learn about the issues and how you can make a difference. And then, to go out and visit with your representatives in their offices. We hope to see you there.
The Art Of Dog.™ 
You must be logged in to post a comment.