Rep. Honda Introduces Resolution Calling to Protect Good Samaritans Who Rescue Pets From Hot Cars

Press Release

Congressman Mike Honda (D-Silicon Valley) has introduced a resolution that expresses Congressional support for protecting pets who are in imminent danger from being left in cars. The resolution calls for state legislation and other efforts to provide legal immunity to Good Samaritans who exercise their "right to rescue" animals in imminent danger in unattended vehicles.

"It's unfair to our best friends that their lives are in danger when they are left alone in cars," Rep. Honda said. "Even temperatures as low as 72 degrees Fahrenheit can result in temperatures inside cars of as high as 116 degrees, resulting in tragic unintended consequences. Anyone who acts on their conscience in rescuing these animals should not face penalties for their acts of kindness."

Currently seven states - California, Florida, Massachusetts, Ohio, Tennessee, Vermont, and Wisconsin - have "Right-to-Rescue Laws" which provide legal immunity for Good Samaritans who break into cars to rescue pets that have been locked in.

"I hope this law also helps to spread awareness to pet owners about the danger their pets face," Rep. Honda added. "No one wants to see their animal friends get hurt but some need to better understand the tragic outcomes that may result."

The Humane Society, ASPCA, and Animal Welfare Institute have endorsed the legislation.

"We thank Congressman Honda for shining a spotlight on this serious issue by commending California and other states for taking action," said Mimi Brody, Director of Federal Affairs for The Humane Society of the United States. "No one should have to fear prosecution for doing what's right and rescuing an animal from tragedy in a hot vehicle."

"The ASPCA strongly supports states giving law enforcement and Good Samaritans the ability to intervene to protect animals suffering in hot cars. We urge anyone who sees a dog at risk in a hot car to call 911 immediately," said Nancy Perry, senior vice president of ASPCA Government Relations. "It takes only minutes for a pet to face death--on a 78-degree day, the temperature inside a parked car can reach 160 degrees, even with the windows cracked. We thank Rep. Honda for introducing this resolution to highlight this very important issue."

"The Animal Welfare Institute commends Rep. Mike Honda for helping raise awareness of state efforts to protect Good Samaritans and the right to rescue when they see an animal in danger locked in an unattended vehicle," said Chris Heyde, deputy director of government and legal affairs for the Animal Welfare Institute. "We hope this resolution and support from Congress will encourage other state legislatures to provide legal protections for citizens' right to rescue animals in need."

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