The U.S. Congress returned to work on November 15 for a post-election “lame duck” session.  The AKC Government Relations and AKC’s federal advocacy team in Washington, D.C., continue to monitor Congress for issues of interest to dog owners. Visit our 2010 Legislative Tracking Page and click on “US Fed” on the map to get the latest updates on federal bills currently being monitored by the AKC.

Here are some highlights of the bills we’re tracking in Congress:

S.3424/ H.R.5434 – This legislation, known as the Puppy Uniform Protection and Safety (PUPS) Act, would require all breeders who breed and sell more than 50 puppies in a 12-month period to be regulated under USDA dog dealer regulations. Requirements would include obtaining an annual USDA license, maintaining minimum federal standards of care, and regular inspections at least biennially. It also would require that breeding dogs receive daily access to exercise that is sufficient to maintain normal muscle tone and mass, the ability to achieve a running stride, and is not a forced activity. The AKC has expressed a number of concerns with the measure and will keep owners and breeders up to date on any changes in the bill’s status. Congressmen Dan Boren (D-Okla.) and Paul C. Broun, M.D., (R-Ga.) have drafted a “dear colleague” letter outlining concerns with this legislation. S.3424 has been assigned to the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, & Forestry. H.R. 5434 is assigned to the House Committee on Agriculture. No hearings have been scheduled for either bill. View AKC’s latest Information Update on this legislation.

H.R. 5422 – This bill provides grants to states that ban debarking “for purposes of convenience”. The grants, which may be up to $1 million, must be used to fund “activities that prevent or promote the prevention of cruelty to animals”. This bill has been assigned to the House Committee on Agriculture. No hearings are scheduled.