At Seattle Humane, we believe that protecting animals means advocating for policies that uphold their safety, dignity, and well-being. This legislative session, we are excited to share that several key bills we supported have passed!
Each of these victories represents a meaningful step forward for animals in our state:
Emergency Preparedness for People and Pets – HB 1201 Passes!
In collaboration with the ASPCA, Seattle Humane strongly supported HB 1201, a crucial piece of legislation that recognizes that pets are very much a part of the family.
Thanks to HB 1201, Washington now moves toward a system of “cosheltering,” which are safe spaces where humans and animals can stay together during crises. This will save lives and reduce the heartbreak that comes from separation during times of chaos.
This bill, which goes into effect on July 27, will require local emergency shelters to accommodate people with their companion animals during disasters such as wildfires, earthquakes, and extreme weather. No longer will pet owners have to face the impossible choice of risking their lives or staying behind to avoid abandoning their animals.
Fighting Animal Cruelty – HB 1149 Moves Forward
We are also thrilled to celebrate the passage of HB 1149, a bill aimed at strengthening Washington’s laws against animal fighting. This legislation closes dangerous legal loopholes and prohibits individuals convicted of animal abuse or fighting from owning animals in the future.
Animal fighting is a brutal, inhumane practice, and with HB 1149 becoming law, Washington is taking a firm stance against this cruelty.
Compassionate lifesavers protected – HB 1046 Becomes Law
In an emergency, every second counts. HB 1046 ensures that compassionate citizens who rescue pets or people from hot cars or other dangerous vehicle-related situations will have legal immunity for their lifesaving actions.
Too often, fear of legal consequences stops someone from stepping in to save an animal in distress. With HB 1046, Washington State affirms the value of compassion and quick action. When lives are on the line, we want people to be empowered to do the right thing without hesitation. This bill will go into effect on July 27, 2025.
Ending Exploitation in Entertainment – SB 5065 Bans Wild Animals in Circuses
Animals like elephants, wild cats, bears, and primates belong in the wild, not in traveling shows. That’s why we celebrate the passage of SB 5065, a landmark bill that bans the use of certain wild animals in circuses and other traveling performances across Washington.
This law, also going into effect on July 27, 2025, protects animals from the cruelty of forced performances, harsh training, and constant confinement, and it replaces outdated entertainment with empathy and ethical standards.
Seattle Humane is proud to have advocated for these victories this year, and we will continue to fight for policies that protect animals and support the people who love them. With every bill passed, we’re building a more humane future for all species.
These victories belong to everyone who spoke up, contacted their lawmakers, and stood up for animals who cannot speak for themselves. And we are sincerely grateful to the many lawmakers who championed these critical and compassionate efforts.
