The Florida Animal Rescue Act Could Have Saved Thousands of Sheltered Pets, Held up Instead Despite Tremendous Public Support. Help it Pass in 2013!

TALLAHASSEE, Fla., April 5, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Florida's animal lovers and humane voters would like to extend a very heartfelt "Thank You!" to Senator Mike Bennett–(R-Bradenton) for his sponsorship of S.B. 818, the Florida Animal Rescue Act, along with House sponsor Joseph Abruzzo–(D-Wellington) who carried the companion legislation, H.B. 597, in the lower chamber.

Both bills received tremendous public support, including the support of Florida's rescue community, many of Florida's animal shelters, and national animal welfare organizations such as Best Friend's Animal Society, Alley Cat Allies, the No Kill Advocacy Center, and No Kill Nation.  In addition, both bills picked up fifteen co-sponsors who also deserve sincere recognition and gratitude for their dedication to Florida's sheltered pets: Senator Don Gaetz (R-Destin) , Senator Latvala (R-St. Petersburg), Senator Margolis (D-Miami), Senator Smith (D-Ft. Lauderdale / West Palm Beach), Representative Jim Boyd (R-Bradenton), Representative Clay Ford (R-Pensacola),  Representative Peter Nehr (R-Tarpon Springs), Representative Steve Perman (D-Boca Raton), Representative Ari Porth (D-Coral Springs), Representative Ken Roberson (R-Port Charlotte), Representative Franklin Sands (D-Sunrise), Representative Daren Soto (D-Orlando), and Representative Trudi Williams (R-Ft. Myers). Thank you for supporting this groundbreaking animal welfare legislation!

While the Florida Animal Rescue Act was passed unanimously in the Senate Community Affairs committee, and despite overwhelming public support, the bill never reached a vote.  On the last day of session, one senator had the power to save the lives of Florida's shelter animals but instead killed the bill due to a procedural objection.

The Florida Animal Rescue Act would have saved the lives of thousands of Florida's sheltered pets, would have saved taxpayer money, and would have set statewide standards for rescue groups.

Please tell Senator Thrasher that the Florida Animal Rescue Act must pass in 2013.  Senator Thrasher can be reached at his Jacksonville office at (904) 727-3600;  via e-mail: [email protected]; or by mail at Senator John Thrasher,  9485 Regency Square Blvd., Suite 108 Jacksonville, FL 32225-8145.

SOURCE No Kill Nation