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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. John T. Galloway |
  
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Galloway clarifies intent of dangerous dog bill
Adds amendment to prevent 'breed specific' bans
HARRISBURG, Aug. 26 – State Rep. John Galloway, D-Bucks, is clarifying the intent of his dangerous dog bill (H.B.2553) by adding an amendment to the bill so communities would have the right to adopt their own dog ordinances, but would not be allowed to enact breed-specific bans.
"My intent with this legislation has always been to give communities the ability to take their own actions with respect to irresponsible owners of dangerous dogs. It was never my intent to allow communities to ban dogs depending on their breed," Galloway said. "That being said, some have misinterpreted the bill and thought it would open the door for breed-specific bans. I have added an amended to my bill so that would not be allowed to happen."
Galloway introduced H.B. 2553 after a beagle was attacked by an unrestrained dog in Bristol. He said Pennsylvania has a statewide "three bites and you're out" dog law which prevents municipalities from enacting their own stronger dog ordinances.
"In some instances, irresponsible owners of aggressive dogs do not take the necessary steps to keep them contained," Galloway said. "Pennsylvania is a very diverse state, and what may work in one community to contain dangerous dogs may not work in another."
Galloway's bill has received bipartisan support in the House and has been applauded by local governments across the Commonwealth. It is currently being considered by the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee.
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