Andrade language to promote animal fire safety approved by both chambers, headed to Governor for signing

Yesterday, language authored by Rep. Mike Andrade (D-Munster) to add further fire safety measures to animal shelters has been approved by both chambers of the Indiana General Assembly. 

Language from a bill authored by Andrade during the past two legislative sessions, which was incorporated into Senate Bill 277, will require newly built animal facilities to have a fire alarm system or staff present whenever animals are on the premises.

The amendment will increase fire safety measures for animal shelters, daycare centers and pet stores, with the goal of preventing fires like the one that devastated Uncle Bill's Pet Center in February 2021. 

“As a dog father myself, it's important for pet families to feel confident in the facilities they entrust to care for their dogs and cats, like daycare centers and overnight boarding facilities,” Andrade said. “That includes having basic protocols in place to keep the animals they're responsible for safe. I'm incredibly grateful for the partnership of Rep. Mike Speedy in working with me to get this language incorporated into the bill, as well as legislators from both parties and chambers in approving it. I hope we can prevent future heartbreak and pet deaths by enacting this measure.”       

With the Senate's concurrence of changes made to SB 277 in the House, the pet safety language now heads to the governor for signing.