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Senator Gudger’s bill tightens rules on tethering, sets minimum outdoor care for dogs
Summary
Senate Bill 361, introduced by Senator Gudger, would restrict tethering and confinement methods and require minimum care for dogs kept outdoors; the committee gave the bill a favorable report after debate about animal welfare and public safety.
Senator Gudger introduced Senate Bill 361, saying the measure responds to recurring animal-cruelty concerns in districts and also addresses human safety where animals are kept outdoors. "This is a bill that we all deal with in our districts," Gudger said, describing provisions that limit tethering methods, prescribe minimum care for dogs kept outside and outline actions animal control officers may take when complaints arise.
The bill was moved for a favorable report and seconded; the committee carried the measure by voice and roll call and recorded a favorable report. The chair’s clerk recorded eight ayes and no nays in the committee record.
Supporters framed the bill as balancing animal welfare and public safety by setting enforceable standards for tethering and outdoor care. The legislation would specify allowable tethering devices and minimum shelter, food and water requirements and would assign animal control officers defined authority to investigate and act on complaints. The sponsor said the bill gives ‘‘activities for these requirements’’ and clarifies what an animal control officer can do on incidents with complaints.
The committee did not record amendments or detailed amendment text in the public speaking record. The bill’s favorable report advances it to the next stage of the legislative process within the chamber; the committee record did not state an effective date or implementation timeline.
The committee proceeded to consider other bills after reporting SB361 favorably.
