Senator Dinniman and Daniel, the dog who survived the gas chamber
Senator Dinniman has put out a plea for your help with Senate Bill 1329. SB 1329 aka “Daniel’s Law”, would put an end of the use of gas chambers for dogs and cats in PA shelters.
Currently, the bill has passed in the Senate despite being gutted by Govenrnor Corbett’s administration. Despite the deletion of certain parts of the bill, SB 1329 would outlaw gas chambers in shelters.
SB 1329 is now in the House Agricultural and Rural Affairs Committee where it sits. If this bill stalls in this committee or expires at the end of this session, which is at the end of June, this bill will have little to no chance to becoming a law.
When this session expires, a new session begins in the fall with very few dates to accomplish the goal of making this bill a law… “Daniel’s Law”, named for the beagle who survived a gas chamber and now resides in New York in his new home with Joe Dwyer and family.
According to Adam Cirucci, Communications Director for Senator Dinniman, Representative John Maher of the House Agricultural and Rural Affairs Committee has the power in his hands to push this bill through to the next level. Cirucci told me that they are encouraging PA animal advocates/activists to contact State Representative Maher to let him know how important this bill is and to be approved before the House adjourns for the summer.
Cirucci also stated that calls have been made to Rep. Maher’s office and they need to continue. Senator Dinniman is hoping to have a sit-down or phone call with Rep. Maher by the end of this week to see if the two can reach the same conclusion.
“Since the legislature will only be in session for a limited number of weeks in the fall, we must get this bill passed through committee now, so when the House returns in September it can be on the floor for consideration and final approval. If Senate Bill 1329 is not approved before the legislative session expires at the end of the year, we will have to start all over again, including getting Senate approval, when the new legislature convenes in January 2013.”
According to Senator Dinniman, he suggests the following when contacting State Rep. John Maher. Time is of the essence. Cirucci told me that this bill be DOA if not passed through this committee by the end of this month. Your help is greatly needed.
I have to question why State Rep. Maher fails to see not only the significance of this bill but the timing of it. From what I understand, Maher has supported animal issues in the past. So it baffles my mind as to the reason for his trepidation on this important bill.
Make it clear that you want Senate Bill 1329 considered and approved by the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee in June and that you know that this relies on Representative Maher’s action as committee chairman.
Make it clear that the issue is of utmost importance to you, your family and friends.
Make it clear that the practice of gassing dogs and cats must be stopped in Pennsylvania and you are determined to see Senate Bill 1329 passed.
Make it clear that you will be paying very close attention to the bill, as it goes through the House legislative process.
You can contact Representative Maher by:E-mail: jmaher@pahousegop.com
Phone: (717) 783-1522 Post Mail: 113 Ryan Office BuildingPO Box 202040Harrisburg, PA 17120-2040
According to Rep. Maher’s office, I was told a number of people have called on behalf of SB 1329 but we still need more people to contact him, whether it be via the phone, email or letter. Please take the time for your voice to be heard! It counts!