SACRAMENTO – Assembly Bill 1965, a measure to make dining with dogs possible, was approved by the Senate Friday and is now headed to the governor’s desk.
Authored by Assemblywoman Mariko Yamada (D-Davis), AB 1965 seeks to give restaurants the option to allow pet dogs in their outdoor seating areas under specified conditions unless a local ordinance determines otherwise.
“I appreciate the support of my colleagues in both the Assembly and the Senate for allowing Californians to enjoy noodles with their poodles,” said Yamada. “As the bill awaits the Governor’s decision, I am hopeful that Sutter Brown will weigh in with a favorable position.”
Several counties, including Los Angeles and Santa Barbara have attempted to create guidelines for restaurants that want to accommodate patrons with pets.
However, current state law still preempts any effort to allow dogs on restaurant patios.
AB 1965 does not mandate restaurants to provide this option, but simply makes the potential practice – which is already occurring throughout California – permissible unless prohibited by local ordinance.
Restaurateurs could make this decision without the threat of a citation or other civil penalty, while upholding necessary public health standards.
“With unwavering support from the California State Restaurant Association, restaurateurs and pet lovers statewide, AB 1965 is now headed to the governor’s desk,” said Judie Mancuso, president of Social Compassion in Legislation. “This bill would allow dogs on outdoor patios and sets policy to support the needs of the pet patrons as well as other diners by setting clear guidelines. We hope to have the support of the governor with a signature making AB 1965 law.”
