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File #: 2025-1620    Version: 1
Type: Will of Council Status: Adopted
File created: 3/7/2025 In control: City Council
On agenda: 3/11/2025 Final action: 3/11/2025
Enactment date: 3/11/2025 Enactment #: 125
Effective date: 3/11/2025    
Title: WHEREAS, in 1992, Pittsburgh City Council enacted a ban prohibiting the use of devices that cause pain and suffering to animals, such as those used in rodeo events; and,
Sponsors: Robert Charland, All Members
Indexes: WILL OF COUNCIL
Attachments: 1. 2025-1620 HB 492 - 2025, 2. 2025-1620 SB 412 - 2024

title

WHEREAS, in 1992, Pittsburgh City Council enacted a ban prohibiting the use of devices that cause pain and suffering to animals, such as those used in rodeo events; and,

 

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WHEREAS, last year’s Pennsylvania state budget included a preemption passed without transparency or discussion that stripped Pittsburgh and other municipalities of their authority to

regulate rodeos and thus the undue stress, injury, and suffering of animals in these events; and,

 

WHEREAS, House Bill 492 of 2025 has been introduced in the Pennsylvania House and Senate Bill 412 of 2024 in the Pennsylvania Senate to repeal the rodeo preemption language and restore local authority over enforcing humane policies; and,

 

WHEREAS, repealing this preemption will restore the City of Pittsburgh’s commitment to ensuring the humane treatment of animals and stands with local advocates and animal welfare organizations who promote the ethical and humane treatment of all living beings.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Pittsburgh supports House Bill 492 and Senate Bill 412 and urges the Pennsylvania Legislature to repeal the rodeo preemption language, restoring Pittsburgh’s ability to enact and enforce humane policies for the welfare of animals and public safety.