MSPCA Recognizes Sen. Jehlen

State Senator Praised for Commitment to Animal Welfare

The following information was released by State Senator Pat Jehlen’s office:

The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA) released its 2009 Massachusetts Legislative Scorecard on Animal Issues this week and State Senator Patricia D. Jehlen (D-Somerville, Medford) was one of only five select legislators profiled in the report for exceptional work on animal-related legislative priorities.

MSPCA publishes the scorecard to assist constituents in familiarizing themselves with their legislators and their legislators’ records.

The MSPCA commended Senator Jehlen specifically for her bill S.2120, An Act to Update the Animal Control Laws of Massachusetts. Among other features of the bill, S. 2120 sets up spay/neuter programs, funds comprehensive and uniform training for Animal Control Officers, and defines dangerous dogs based upon behavior and not by specific breed. The bill was recently heard and reported out favorably by the Joint Committee on the Environment, Agriculture, and Natural Resources and the Senate Committee on Ways and Means.

Jehlen said of the recognition, “I am honored that MSPCA would recognize the work of my office on animal welfare issues. I am proud of the Animal Control bill. It continues to receive widespread support from many dog-owners, rescue groups, and the Animal Control Officers’ organization. And it is income-neutral for the Commonwealth! I hope my colleagues in the Senate and House will have the opportunity to vote for it soon.”