Pennsylvania Clarification: HB 594 – Dog Shows and Shut-Down Orders

AKC Legislative Alert

Last week, House Bill 594 was introduced in Pennsylvania relative to COVID-19 limitations and restrictions as they may apply to a number of recreational activities, including dog shows and events.  AKC wishes to clarify its position on this legislation.

Early on during the COVID-19 Pandemic, AKC worked to developed guidelines to assist those clubs who wish to hold events, and are able to do so safely, where allowed by state rules and local governments. AKC guidelines for the holding of dog shows require additional specific actions relative to safe canine exhibition and social distancing, as well as following all CDC, state and local guidance in effect at the time of the event.

AKC’s position and its commitment to the health and safety of event exhibitors during the pandemic has not changed.

As introduced, Pennsylvania House Bill 594 does not reduce health and safety protocols for events, but rather states that arbitrary restrictions should not be established specifically to prevent dog shows and similar animal events. If events are being permitted, regulations should be uniformly applied across different types of events.

AKC thanks Representative Millard for his desire to see dog shows conducted safely in his district when appropriate, and requires who organize and participate in events to follow all protocols to ensure the safety of all involved.

For more information on AKC’s position and guidelines regarding COVID-19, visit https://www.akc.org/press-center/covid-19-updates-from-the-american-kennel-club/

For more information on AKC Government Relations policies and comments, visit www.akcgr.org/covid19

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Posted by chesliepickett on Mar 3 2021. Filed under Breaking News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.