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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2017 - 2018
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | April 12, 2017 09:44 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Eddie Day Pashinski |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Streamlining the purchase of Dog License and increasing fees |
| In the near future, I plan to introduce legislation that amends the Dog Law (Act 225 of 1982) to both modernize the ways in which dogs are licensed in Pennsylvania and increase dog license fees for FY 2017-18 in order to avert a deficit in the Department’s Dog Law Restricted Account (DLRA). Dog license sales are the primary revenue generator (about 87%) for the Department’s Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement (BDLE). Any future license increases that would be needed would be subject to the regulatory review process. Dog license fees have not been increased since 1996. Despite the Department’s best efforts to reduce costs and increase marketing of licenses, a dog license fee increase is critical to the solvency of the DLRA which is projected to go negative in FY 2017-18 absent additional revenue. Since 1996, the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement’s responsibilities have evolved and grown exponentially, and personnel costs have risen at a rate far greater than revenue generated. The purpose of a fee increase is to sustain the BDLE without creating an excessive fund balance at the end of a fiscal year, and allow the BDLE to perform its statutory obligations. The legislation would include the ability to offer a modern and convenient online platform for all online license sales in the Commonwealth. In order to streamline and modernize online customer service for the purchase of dog licenses, the Department would like to offer one single online platform for the entire state. The Department would be offering a cohesive and modern approach to license sales which would improve customer convenience and satisfaction. Also, by having this online platform, the Department would more easily be able to keep and maintain proper records. Your constituents will benefit from this bill because BDLE will be able to continue to investigate dog bites, pick up stray dogs, inspect licensed kennels and reimburse for damage to livestock caused by dogs. County Treasurers will benefit as they will receive more in revenue for their part in administering the licensing process and shelters will benefit when grants are reestablished for taking in stray dogs that cannot otherwise be placed. The bottom line is that without the ability to increase fees, the BDLE will have to cut services and eventually, will have to suspend them all together. A minimal fee increase for a dog license will continue to benefit Pennsylvania’s residents, canines and counties. If you would like to join me as a co-sponsor of this bill, please contact Marilyn Juran mjuran@pahouse.net or 783-0686. Thank you. |
Introduced as HB1463