Update: November 6, 2009
The first stage of passing the Ohio Issue 2 to outlaw dog auctions in Ohio won by large margins in 87 of the 88 counties in Ohio.
Now it’s on to Phase Two
Many signatures are still needed by December 14 to outlaw dog auctions in Ohio. Proponents must collect a minimum of 120, 700 valid signatures from registered Ohio voters.
The current number of collected signatures is very low. It is important to note that supporters who signed the Petition during 'Phase 1' of the signature drive must also sign 'Phase 2.'
Your Help Still Needed
Help make dog auctions illegal in Ohio by helping collect signatures. Instructions and materials are located at the end of this article as well as links for more information.
Original Article below:
The initiative known as the Ohio Dog Auctions Act would make it unlawful for any person to auction or raffle a dog within Ohio for any purpose. It would also prohibit bringing a dog that was acquired through an auction or raffle into Ohio for purposes of sale or trade.
The Ohio Attorney General would have authority to investigate and prosecute alleged violations of the Act. A first conviction under the Act would be punishable as a minor misdemeanor and each subsequent conviction as a fourth degree misdemeanor.
Petition Signatures Needed
Before the legislature to consider this important ban, however, petitions must be circulated to gather signatures from Ohio voters in at least 44 of the state's 88 counties. Only qualified electors can sign the petition. There is one petition per county.
The total number of valid signatures on the petition must equal 120,700. The deadline is December 14.
How You Can Help
- When the Ohio Dog Auctions Act is on the ballot, vote "yes."
For More Information
Visit the Coalition to Ban Ohio Dog Auctions
Questions
Please contact the Coalition to Ban Ohio Dog Auctions at
614-271-8248 or info@banohiodogauctions.com.
Photo by Clay Myers, Best Friends photographer.