Politics

Salem, Ore.-As state lawmakers open the 2003 legislative session next month, it's likely they'll face issues concerning the veterinary profession, including a bill that holds DVMs responsible for reporting animal abuse to local authorities.

Schaumburg, Ill.-The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Governmental Relations Division, in partnership with the American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF), is accepting applications for the 2003-04 AVMA/AVMF Congressional Science Fellowship Program.

Government to decide fate of multi-million dollar, heavily-manpowered-federal agencies

Huge liability repercussions loom for small businesses; issue will resurface

Washington-The House-Senate Farm Bill Conference has elected to remove the Puppy Protection Act (PPA) from the final Farm Bill (H.R. 2646 ­ Farm Security Act), as of late April.

European connoisseurs of horsemeat may no longer be able to rely on U.S. exports, should a new bill pass Congress.

Washington-Barely a growl surfaced after the Senate recently approved the Puppy Protection Act, which specifies new canine breeding and treatment guidelines.

The distinction between therapeutic and non-therapeutic use may split the fate of select antibiotics targeted in a federal bill unveiled in Congress Feb. 28.

It may be only a matter of several hundred dollars each year, but over the course of a career, it can add up.

Washington­In mid-February, the U.S. Senate voted in favor of advanced animal protection in its 50 states with passage of the Farm Bill.

If a provision in the patients' bill of rights moves forward, legislative language could ease efforts of national associations like the AVMA in offering comprehensive health coverage for members' staff.

Columbus-An Ohio Senator has introduced a bill in the state that would stiffen charges against animal abusers from misdemeanor to felony for specified acts of cruelty.

Pueblo, Colo. - A House committee of the Colorado General Assembly is even more driven to increase the charges filed against animal abusers, after viewing a key "witness," Westy the cat.

A new bill that eliminates the need for a special prescription form for controlled substances has been passed by the Michigan state legislature.

Washington-Financial and legislative efforts tied to mare reproductive loss syndrome (MRLS) have done more than bend some ears on Capitol Hill, according to The Horse Interactive.

Chicago, Ill. - An Illinois bill (HB1825), signed by Gov. George Ryan on Aug. 9, has added new rules for pet cremation, but critics charge the new rules may be unenforceable.

Washington-Legislation that would enlist government agencies in preventing the spread of mad cow disease in the U.S. was received with unanimous U.S. Senate approval.

Minneapolis-The Minnesota Senate passed a bill that would deem it a felony-level offense for anyone to intentionally torture or kill pet animals.