Crow Introduces Bill to Keep People and Their Pets Together in Public Housing
WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO) introduced bipartisan legislation that would allow families to keep their pets in public housing.
The Pets Belong With Families Act would prohibit overly broad restrictions against dogs based on breed, size, or weight, allowing families to keep their pets in public housing. The bill would also place limitations on pet deposits, preventing financial penalties against families with pets.
“Pets are our family. No one should have to choose between their pet and a roof over their head,” said Congressman Crow. “Our bipartisan bill will prevent needless restrictions on animals in public housing so Coloradans and their pets can stay together, no matter where they call home.”
Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) introduced companion legislation in the Senate, while Congressman Mike Lawler (R-NY) joined Congressman Crow in introducing this bipartisan legislation in the House.
“No family should have to choose between keeping their beloved pet or having a roof over their head. But too often, families are forced to make this difficult decision due to restrictions limiting the kinds of dogs allowed in their homes. This bipartisan bill would remove these unfair barriers to ensure that Americans and their pets can stay together,” said Senator Schiff.
“For a lot of families, mine included, pets are part of the family. It shouldn’t come down to choosing between a place to live and keeping your dog or cat. This bipartisan, bicameral bill takes a more practical approach, cutting out those blanket restrictions while still holding owners accountable. It’ll help more families find housing, keep pets out of overcrowded shelters, and bring a little more common sense back into the process,” said Congressman Lawler.
“Families struggling with housing insecurity should not be forced to make the impossible choice between keeping a roof over their heads and staying with their beloved pets. Pets provide joy, comfort, and companionship — and no one should be denied that because of their income or housing status,” said Matt Bershadker, President and CEO of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). “The Pets Belong with Families Act will ensure lower-income families can access stable, affordable housing without fear of being separated from a cherished member of the family. The ASPCA is proud to support this critical legislation.”
This legislation is endorsed by the American Bar Association, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Animal Legal Defense Fund, Animal Welfare Institute, Best Friends Animal Society, Humane World for Animals, Humane World Action Fund, Michelson Center for Public Policy, National Housing Law Project.
Throughout his time in Congress, Congressman Crow has been a consistent champion for pets and pet owners. He previously introduced the Pets Belong with Families Act of 2023 in the 118th Congress. He also led the Providing for Unhoused People with Pets Act (PUPP Act) that would provide funding for homeless shelters to retrofit their facilities to better accommodate pets.
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