UPDATE: Thursday, January 29, 2015 – By a vote of 9-5, the Senate Agriculture Committee approved SB 693, a bill that would support Trap-Neuter-Return programs across the state of Virginia. The bill now goes to the Senate floor for a vote by the entire Senate.
UPDATE: Thursday, January 22, 2015 the Senate Agriculture Committee heard testimony, but decided to hold off on consideration of all three bills for one week. We will keep you posted on those Senate bills.
The Virginia Senate is in the heart of their legislative session, and Senators are considering several bills that would impact cats. Virginia residents: Please take a few moments to take action on all three bills today!
- OPPOSE the TNR Restriction Bill, SB 699 This bill would require the suspension of existing community cat programs pending the lengthy process of obtaining a local ordinance. Worse, the latest amendments to the bill would mandate new government regulations that could restrict volunteers from providing spay/neuter assistance to outdoor cats.
Take Action Now » - SUPPORT the Community Cat Bill, SB 693 This bill would clarify Virginia law to remove any doubt that Trap-Neuter-Return practices are permitted in the state. It would ensure there are no obstacles to animal shelters and animal controls participating in Trap-Neuter-Return.
Take Action Now » - SUPPORT the Spay/Neuter Fund Bill, SB 698 This bill would save the lives of countless animals across the state by creating a fund that increases the availability of spay/neuter where it is needed most. The bill would fund spay/neuter surgeries for community cats, animals in pounds and shelters, and pets of low-income residents. The funding would be provided by a small surcharge paid by wholesale distributors and manufacturers of pet food.
Take Action Now »
Together we can protect and improve the lives of cats, and to do that we need to speak up on their behalf. Virginia residents, please contact your Senator today!