Hawaii Senate Bill SR107

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/14/24
• Refer: 3/19/24

Caption

Requesting State And County Agencies To Notify Animal Welfare Organizations Of Deceased Cats And Dogs That Are Picked Up Along State And County Roadways.

Impact

The resolution calls for specific actions from various governmental agencies responsible for pet control and public health. By requiring agencies to scan for microchips or check for identification tags when they collect deceased animals, the bill aims to connect lost pets with their owners more effectively. This action aligns with a previous law enacted in 2022 that mandates microchipping for pets, thus promoting responsible pet ownership and enhancing animal welfare standards in the state.

Summary

Senate Resolution 107 (SR107) proposes a request for state and county agencies in Hawaii to implement a protocol for notifying animal welfare organizations whenever deceased cats and dogs are retrieved from public roadways. With around sixty percent of households in Hawaii owning at least one dog or cat, the bill recognizes the emotional significance of pets to their owners and the closure that can come from knowing what happened to them. SR107 seeks to establish a mechanism for checking microchips and obtaining information about the animals' owners from the collected data, contributing to better handling of deceased pets on roadways.

Contention

While the resolution is framed as a positive step towards improving animal welfare, it may raise questions about the resources needed for effective implementation. Concerns could arise regarding funding for additional scanners or the allocation of personnel time to execute these new requirements. However, proponents of the bill emphasize the emotional value and community support that pet owners deserve during such difficult times, indicating a societal consensus on pet ownership's importance.

Notable_points

One notable aspect of SR107 is the focus on coordinating efforts between government agencies and non-profit organizations in dealing with deceased pets. This collaboration is essential for effective outreach and ensuring that pet owners receive timely and accurate information about their lost pets. The resolution also highlights the essential role of microchip technology in pet recovery efforts, fostering a proactive approach to animal welfare.