HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 90
(By Delegates D. Poling, D. Walker, Manchin, Evans,
Hall, Rowan, Schadler, Klempa, Michael, Azinger,
Guthrie, Ellem, Longstreth, C. Miller and Cowles)
Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance authorize
the study of West Virginia's dogs and animal control issues
which would examine the problem of unwanted cats and dogs and
derive a plan to combat the issue in a cost efficient manor
while still considering the humane treatment of animals.
Whereas, There is a disturbing amount of unwanted dogs and cats
across the State of West Virginia; and
Whereas, In 2008, 16,823 dogs and 17,725 cats were taken into
shelters throughout West Virginia; and
Whereas, Every nine seconds a dog or cat is killed in a shelter
because there is no one to adopt them; and
Whereas, Forty-nine percent of dogs and seventy-seven percent
of cats entering West Virginia shelters in 2008 were euthanized;
and
Whereas, Many dogs and cats in shelters are special needs
animals who have suffered from neglect and abuse; and
Whereas, Pet overpopulation is at crisis levels; and
Whereas, The safety of both male and female animals is
dramatically increased if they are spayed or neutered; therefore,
be it
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:
That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby
requested to study West Virginia's dogs and animal control issues,
examine the problem of unwanted cats and dogs, and derive a plan to
combat the issue in a cost efficient manor while still considering
the humane treatment of animals; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and
Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2011, on
its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts
of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and
be it
Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this
study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be
paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on
Government and Finance.