[nagdu] Evans' Service Dog Protection Bill Passes State House {TID:50094946:15285435}

[Passle Helminski]

>Hi,


I just got this from Rep. John Evans office.

>
>Passle and Tomboy Kate:  FYI
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>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
>June 15, 2010
>
>Evans' Service Dog Protection Bill Passes State House
>
>HARRISBURG - The Pennsylvania House of Representatives today gave 
>its approval to legislation sponsored by Rep. John Evans 
>(R-Erie/Crawford) to further protect service animals.
>
>House Bill 123, which passed the House unanimously today, 
>establishes penalties for pet owners and co-owners who willfully and 
>recklessly allow their animals to seriously injure or kill a service 
>or guide dog. Specifically, the penalties would apply to the guide 
>dog of an individual who is blind, a hearing dog of an individual 
>who is deaf or audibly impaired or a service dog of an individual 
>who is physically limited.
>
>"Service animals cost a great deal of money and undergo extensive 
>training to be able to assist individuals who are blind, deaf or 
>physically limited, and in many cases, these animals are the only 
>means of independence and mobility to those they serve," Evans said. 
>"For these animals to be seriously harmed or killed by the willful 
>recklessness and maliciousness of another animal owner is 
>irresponsible. Penalties should be in place to send a clear message 
>to prevent these types of instances."
>
>Evans emphasized that the legislation is not intended to target 
>responsible pet owners. The proposal specifically speaks to dog 
>owners who repeatedly allow their vicious animals to run loose and 
>attack other animals, especially service dogs that are trained not 
>to fight back in an assault.
>
>If found to be in violation, the offender would face a second-degree 
>misdemeanor and a fine up to $5,000. In addition to the fine, a 
>person convicted under this new law may be required to make 
>reparations for veterinary costs in treating the guide, hearing or 
>service dog and, if necessary, the cost of a replacement dog.
>
>The legislation now heads to the state Senate for consideration.
>
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>JAK/ael