Positions on proposed state policy
Policy AHS supports
Companion Animal Board bill: Establishes a board of experts to identify and address the current and future needs of Minnesota’s pets — and the people and communities that care for them.
Learn more about this policy priority for Animal Humane Society.
Licensed Veterinary Technician bill: Elevates and protects the veterinary technician job title by establishing a process for veterinary technician licensure.
Recognizing the current veterinary technician shortage, the bill provides a transition period during which alternative minimum qualifications, such as on the job experience, can be applied toward licensure. The Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association is leading advocacy efforts on this bill.
Policy AHS is tracking
Office of Animal Protection bills: Establishes an Office of Animal Protection within the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.
Two different bills establishing an Office of Animal Protection were introduced in the Minnesota state legislature. While Animal Humane Society supports effective enforcement of anti-cruelty laws, not enough is known about either bill for Animal Humane Society to take a position at this time.
Positions on other animal welfare topics
The following position statements have been established by the board of directors and staff of Animal Humane Society.
- Animals in entertainment and competition
- Animals used for biomedical research and testing and education
- Breed-specific bans
- Breeding of companion animals
- Canine elective and cosmetic surgical procedures
- Community cats
- Declawing of domestic cats
- Open admission
- Pet identification
- Pet population
- Pet training methods
- Rescue and relief