A California legislator recently introduced a bill in response to the heartwarming reunion of “Oreo” the dog with his owner during the Los Angeles fires. The legislation, known as the FOUND (Friends of Oreo Uniting During Disasters) Act, aims to assist in rescuing pets left behind during natural disasters. Assemblymember Rick Zbur, who represents portions of Los Angeles, explained in an interview with NBC News that the bill recognizes the importance of pets as integral members of families.
The bill, labeled AB 478, requires local jurisdictions to include procedures in their emergency plans for retrieving animals left behind during mandatory evacuations. It also calls for the establishment of an emergency rescue hotline to aid evacuees in getting help. Zbur emphasized the need for clear protocols to facilitate the reunification of pet owners with their animals during crises.
Inspired by the emotional reunion between Casey Colvin and his pomeranian Oreo, the legislation seeks to prevent the heartbreak faced by individuals separated from their pets during disasters. The bill is set to undergo the legislative process, with hopes for approval by the Assembly, followed by the Senate, and potentially signed into law by the governor.
Judie Mancuso, CEO of Social Compassion Legislation, a group advocating for animal rights, expressed optimism that the FOUND Act could set a precedent for other states to implement similar measures. The ultimate goal is to protect animals during various natural disasters, such as wildfires and hurricanes, across the nation.
