Rep. Payne, Jr. Votes to Protect Pets During Natural Disasters

Statement

Rep. Donald M. Payne, Jr., a senior member of the House Homeland Security Committee, voted for a bill today to direct the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to establish best practices to protect pets and other animals during natural disasters. The bill, the Planning for Animal Wellness (PAW) Act (S. 4205), would establish contingency plans to evacuate and care for household pets, captive animals and service animals during emergencies.

"As a long-time pet owner, I understand first-hand how the loss of a pet can affect people mentally and emotionally," said Rep. Donald M. Payne, Jr. "Pets are fundamental parts of our families. I remember the harrowing images of pets lost or abandoned after Superstorm Sandy and Hurricane Ida. We need to have emergency plans in place to protect them before a national emergency occurs. I am proud to vote for this bill because it creates that plan to help pet owners across New Jersey and nationwide."

Once this legislation is signed into law by President Biden, the Administrator of FEMA will have 18 months to establish an advisory group that addresses animal care.

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