Dogs and cats were the focus of debate at the California Capitol today. A proposed bill would require universities to offer cats and dogs for adoption after the schools had used the animals in research projects.
Democratic Assemblyman Matthew Dababneh wrote the legislation.
“This bill isn’t about the research process. This bill is about the humane treatment of animals. And so while I’m one of the biggest supporters of the UC system, of the Cal State system and the private universities, this bill isn’t about that. This bill is about making sure our bill is once again a leader in the humane treatment of animals"
Assembly Member Marc Levine meets with supporters of AB 147, a bill facilitating the adoption of animals previously used for research. Andrew Nixon / Capital Public Radio
Republican Assemblywoman Marie Waldron supports the bill.
“As someone who has rescued a dog in the past, they are precious in God’s eyes, they have a future. They should be with a loving family after they’ve done the service to society.”
Critics of the measure say it would be redundant because many universities already have adoption procedures in place. They say a majority of the animals the bill would apply to are already adopted out.
Legislative aid Melanie Cuevas learns more about adopting beagles for her brother. "I love puppies, so I had to come out and play with the dogs." Andrew Nixon / Capital Public Radio
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