Siptroth introduces legislation to help animal shelters

HARRISBURG — State Rep. John Siptroth has introduced legislation to help organizations like the Pike County Humane Society pay for services they offer. The bill would provide financial aid to animal shelters by using revenues from dog license purchases, which would be raised by $2.50. “Many shelters in Pennsylvania are facing tremendous financial difficulties in providing a very valuable community service,” Siptroth said. “I have previously supported small grants for the Pike County Humane Society, but a dedicated funding stream is essential to its long-term survival.” Siptroth said he has also worked with groups in Monroe County to find funding for a low-cost spay and neuter clinic. He recently submitted a grant request for $30,000 on their behalf to help establish the clinic, which would be run by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. “My new legislation could help provide over $1 million every year for initiatives like this throughout the state,” Siptroth said. “I anticipate that this legislation would provide about $37,000 every year for projects in my district alone.” Siptroth has also co-sponsored several other bills to amend the state’s Dog Law, including legislation related to the welfare of dogs in commercial breeding kennels that was announced at a news conference this morning, and a dog-tethering bill that currently awaits consideration in the House Appropriations Committee. When the mail doesn’t arrive on time, get the news at pikecountycourier.com .