Sara is back for a second time on #LunchLegislation. This time we take a deep dive into the Protecting Animal Wellness (PAW) Act which has passed both the US Senate and House, and is on its way to the President’s desk. View the discussion here.
The PAW Act will require the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to establish best practices and federal guidance in emergency and disaster preparedness, response and recovery, for household pets, service and assistance animals, and captive animals in emergency and disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.
The PAW Act is much-needed update a 2006 law passed in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.
“What have we seen since that time? A burgeoning [because of] climate change of the type, breadth and frequency of natural disasters. … It’s smart to ensure that best practices are being shared.”
Sara Amundson, Lunch + Legislation, October 3, 2022
The bill was introduced on May 12, 2022, and passed the Senate by “Unanimous Consent” on August 6.
The House of Representatives did not hold committee hearings, but considered it under “Suspension of the Rules” and it passed in mid September.