Advocacy
The Voice for Animal Welfare Organizations
The Animal Welfare Association of Colorado is the voice for animal welfare organizations at the Colorado state capitol. AWAC has been pivotal in enacting critical animal protection laws for many years. Our work has resulted in regulation of commercial breeders and pet stores, increased penalties for animal cruelty, spay and neuter requirements for shelters, and much more. We have also been on the frontlines of forming socially conscious sheltering legislation.
Recap of the 2023 Colorado Legislative Session:
provided by AWAC lobbyist Emma Hudson
The Animal Welfare Association of Colorado (AWAC) engaged on several bills in the 2023 Legislative Session, though one policy area certainly rose to the top in terms of time, political capital, and collective effort.
Read the recap of the following bills here.
Veterinary Professional Associate (VPA) and Telehealth Efforts
HB23-1041 – Prohibit Wagering on Simulcast Greyhound Races
SB23-044, Veterinary Education Loan Repayment Program
HB23-1068, Pet Animal Ownership in Housing
HB23-1286, Increase Penalty Cruelty Police & Service Animals
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AWAC advocacy committee:
Jodi Buckman – co-chair
Dumb Friends League
Judy Calhoun – co-chair
Larimer Humane Society
Diane Matt
Colorado Veterinary Medical Association
Char Gonsenica
Eagle Valley Humane Society
Jan McHugh-Smith
Humane Society of Boulder Valley
Dave Lewis
City of Englewood Police Department
Krista Amatuzio
City of Steamboat Springs Police Department
Maggie McSchaefer
Foothills Animal Shelter
Rigo Neira
Larimer Humane Society
Dawn Neely
Rifle, Colo.
Rachel Heatley
Denver Dumb Friends League
Judy Calhoun
Larimer Humane Society
Melanie Sobel
Denver Animal Protection