The Balow and Lothian Budget Amendment Proposals

       Though two of our State Representatives, Representative Larry Balow (D) and Representative Tom Lothian (R) attempted to show their their progressive thinking, their courage in setting aside "party politics," and their commitment to people and animals in Wisconsin by proposing Budget amendments to restore the Pet Facilities in its original language with its self-funding features, only Rep. Balow's proposal made it to a vote.

     Apparently, Rep. Louthian was prevented by the current the Republican "no budget amendment" policy. Despite a HUGE outpouring of letters, phone calls and e-mails to our legislators...the Republicans DID NOT heed our pleas for reinstatement of the Pet Facilities Law. They allowed NO amendments to the budget whatsoever.You will find details of both proposed amendments below, along with a link to the actual text of the Balow amendment.

        To find out which representatives supported the PFL, see http://www.legis.state.wi.us/2003/data/votes/av0163.pdf. Remember, the NO votes are the ones actually in favor of the PFL.

Press Release Issued March 13, 2003

Balow to Offer Pet Facilities Law Amendment
Repeal of puppy mill regulations a step in the wrong direction

MADISON - State Representative Larry Balow (D-Eau Claire) announced today that he will offer an amendment to the state budget that keeps Wisconsin's Pet Facilities Law on the books. Under current law, the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection is required to regulate pet breeders, pet dealers, kennels and animal shelters and establish animal shelter and kennel license fees. The proposed 2003-2005 budget bill repeals these regulations.

"As a responsible pet owner, I'm proud to support tough animal cruelty laws," said Balow. "This amendment will ensure pet breeders, retailers and kennels meet standards designed to protect both animals and the families who love them. Additionally, it does so in a way that does not cost the state any money in this time of fiscal constraint."

Starting February 1, 2004, the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection would be required to license pet dealers, kennels, and animal shelters that meet standards set by administrative rule following required inspections. Current fiscal estimates put the cost for salary, fringe benefits, supplies and services associated with the program and inspections at about $420,000 for 2004. These costs would be completely offset through increases in license fees for dog owners and revenue generated from licensure of the regulated facilities.

"I applaud Representative Balow for introducing this amendment. Each year, many animals suffer horribly in breeding facilities known as puppy mills," said Colleen Blanchard, an Eau Claire animal activist. "Not only are these animals mistreated, but consumers can unwittingly buy unhealthy animals bred in inhumane conditions."

For more information on puppy mills, including a pictorial documentary on the treatment and status of animals in the breeding facilities, please visit the Wisconsin Puppy Mill Project website.

    Full Text of Rep. Balow's Amendment Proposal      

Rep. Tom Lothian's proposal apparently fell victim to Republican party policy of no amendments to this year's budget.

       Representative Lothian has not yet issued a press release on his proposal, but has officially submitted for consideration an amendment that would restore the Pet Facilities Act, including inspection and licensing program. He is taking the approach that the PFL would be a sound budgetary move.

       According to an aide, "Pet licensing and pet facilities inspection and licensing program as proposed by DATCP would generate $427,261.20 annually. Total cost of program is $421,000 annually. Revenue estimate is conservative as it does not factor in fines generated through inspections and enforcement. It also benefits local law enforcement who would realize increased relief from investigation of facilities as the DATCP inspection program matures.

HIGHLIGHTS:

1. The Pet Facilities Licensing and Inspection program generates more revenue than it requires to operate.

2. The program addresses the growing problems local law enforcement face by having to use valuable investigative time looking into puppy mills and other facilities that may be in violation.

3. The program allows local governments to realize additional revenue from pet licensing fees that they collect.