Senator McLeod griped about her fax machine breaking because of all this. It was pretty funny. I really liked her (and not just because of her responsible owner statement - but that helped a lot). She ran a tight ship but wasn't awful about it. At the beginning she stated that Levine would introduce the bill and then each side would have 20 minutes to present. She said she'd cut it off right at 20 minutes and don't consider it rude because they'd been forewarned. And, sure enough, she did. Time updates were given along the way and she interrupted the final speaker of the proponents. The opponents were between speakers when their time was called.
When Lassie and "her" trainer were introduced, McLeod said that if Lassie wanted to speak, it would count against the clock.
Later on, there was a bit of mild vocalization from Lassie and McLeod said that Lassie was trying to get into the conversation. Very cute and offered some needed levity.
Levine likes to take a lot of cheap shots. It's very irritating. I am happy that the opponents' speakers keep it very neutral and refrain from personal attacks. One thing Levine said, and positively acknowledged, was only one opponent of the bill repeatedly met with him and discussed the issues over this bill. Levine keeps harping that all the opponents say nothing can make this bill passable and offer no solutions (um, wrong). So, perhaps writing constructive letters to Levine (not ones that encourage him to continue with this bill, tho) and others would be a good thing for out of state (AND in-state) folks to do. My personal opinion is that strict enforcement of existing containment and leash laws would go a very long way toward reducing unwanted litters of puppies and kittens. I think that is the direction that should be taken. That targets the irresponsible owners while allowing the responsible owners to be at peace.
So, write letters. I think snail mail would be a good way to go for a while. Give the fax machines a break. If you have the chance to meet with legislators, very good.
Oh, Levine is going to be running for State Senate. Definitely something to do would be to identify his opponents and SUPPORT them. Get Levine OUT. That is something both residents and non-residents can do.