Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Humane Society Supports HB 0033

Legislation would amend Utahʼs existing fireworks law! The Humane Society of Utah strongly supports House Bill 0033, sponsored by State Representative James A. Dunnigan. Rep. Dunniganʼs fireworks amendment has received a favorable recommendation from the House Standing Committee on Business and Labor and has now been advanced to the full House for consideration.

The bill is designed to modify the times during which fireworks may be sold and discharged in the state of Utah. While the bill has been introduced in response to numerous complaints from citizens disturbed by the extended time periods during which fireworks may be discharged, the Humane Society of Utah also supports the legislation because of the impact fireworks have on animals.

“This past summer,” says Executive Director Gene Baierschmidt, “we received many complaints from the public regarding lost dogs because of the extended time period when fire works were allowed to be set off. Every summer shelters throughout our state are filled with cats and dogs who panic during the commotion, run away and become lost. Many are struck and killed by cars. We believe legislation such as HB 0033 should be supported as it will help make the firework season more tolerable for our companion animals.”

The Humane Society of Utah will monitor the progress of HB 0033 through this legislative session and encourages legislators to pass the bill in itʼs present form without any changes to the current language.