HARRISBURG – The Senate of Pennsylvania unanimously approved legislation today that would amend the state’s Dog Law to exempt certain service dogs from licensing fees, according to the bill’s sponsor, Senator Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York).
The state’s Dog Law currently exempts state police and local police K-9 units from having to pay the licensing fees, as well as service dogs used by individuals who have certain medical conditions. Phillips-Hill’s Senate Bill 36 would also exempt service dogs and their handlers from paying for licensing fees if those canines are used by the Sheriffs’ offices, fire departments and/or for rescue or emergency medical services missions.
“Our volunteer fire companies and other emergency rescue organizations rely heavily on donations and fundraising activities in order to fund their critical operations,” Phillips-Hill said. “The COVID-19 pandemic has put a major financial strain on these associations. Exempting these organizations from paying this existing fee can play a small part in providing much-needed assistance to these entities today and in the years to come.”
The legislation heads to the House of Representatives for its consideration.