Saving Arizona's animals isn't a partisan issue

Independent Newsmedia/Charlene Bisson

Tell Us What You Think

What are your thoughts on protecting animals in Arizona? Tell us in 300 words or less at yourvalley.net/letters, or email your comments, name, address and contact number to AzOpinions@iniusa.org.

OPINION — Protecting animals is not a partisan issue. It is about building stronger, safer communities for everyone. Arizona is fortunate to have leaders who understand that humane policies benefit both people and animals.

Arizona Sen. John Kavanagh (Legislative District 3) and state Rep. Matt Gress (Legislative District 4) have consistently demonstrated that commitment, and that is why I encourage voters to re-elect them this fall.

Throughout their time at the Capitol, Kavanagh and Gress have supported practical, compassionate animal-welfare legislation. Both voted for Senate Bill 1658 (Jerry’s Law), which strengthened Arizona's animal-cruelty laws by clarifying standards for adequate shelter, necessary veterinary care and humane treatment of domestic animals.

Sen. Kavanagh has long been a leader on animal protection, sponsoring legislation to prohibit insurance companies from discriminating against dog owners based solely on breed, strengthening Arizona’s laws against cockfighting and earning Humane World for Animals' Humane Legislator Award in 2022.

Rep. Gress has also championed policies that help keep families and their pets together by sponsoring legislation to prohibit homeowners' associations from imposing breed, size or weight restrictions on dogs and cats while preserving reasonable behavior-based rules. He has supported legislation ensuring that individuals with service animals have equal access to housing.

Animal welfare succeeds when lawmakers are willing to work across the aisle to advance thoughtful, common-sense solutions. Sen. Kavanagh and Rep. Gress have demonstrated that protecting animals also means supporting Arizona families and strengthening our communities. Their records reflect a commitment to practical, compassionate leadership, and I encourage voters to support their re-election this November.

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