Dark days for animals at the Iowa Statehouse

SF 483 is an oppressive bill that sets a dangerous precedent, and it is on the Senate floor now. This bill would overturn local laws passed by communities all across Iowa to protect animals.

Iowans know the needs of their cities and towns better than anyone. They have worked tirelessly to pass important ordinances, such as a county that requires more frequent inspections of puppy mills and a city that prohibits the use of the bull hook for elephants in entertainment. These are laudable accomplishments championed by Iowans. The average citizen cares greatly for the welfare of animals in this state, yet Iowa consistently ranks near the bottom for animal treatment and protective legislation.

SF483 will represent an enormous step backward by removing these local protections that have been put in place. Even the Iowa Veterinary Medical Association publicly opposes this bill, which speaks volumes about who this bill will end up serving. Hint: it's not the animals. Please speak up - reach out to your senator and ask them to oppose this bill in any form. We must be the voice for the voiceless.

Allison Jaynes

Iowa City