As many of you know a bill to allow dogs at sidewalk cafes was introduced to the house and senate this session.

A proponent for the bill contacted me to say the bill is in danger of not passing. As far as I know, the Health Department is not raising objections, only some of the politicians.

If you are in favor of dogs being allowed at outdoor cafes/restaurants, you need to contact your representatives and let them know you support the bill. If this bill passes, individual cities and restaurant owners can still disallow dogs, this legislation only gives them the option of being dog friendly.

The opposing representative, Michael Paymar, is in St. Paul. So St. Paul
residents may want to call Representative Paymar and tell him that regarding senate file 2876 and house file 2423 you WANT to allow dogs in outdoor eating establishments.

Contact information for Representative Michael Paymar (DFL) 64B
(651) 296-4199
E-mail Form

Important talking points:

• You support dogs in outdoor eating establishments
• This will be good for the economy because people will stay out longer and go out more often if they do not have to rush home to a dog
• It promotes dog socialization and well-socialized dogs tend to be better canine citizens
• Restaurant owners and cities could still opt out. This is only providing them the OPTION of allowing it. Not requiring it.

You may also want to THANK Senators Ellen Anderson and Warren Limmer and let them know you support their actions to keep the bill moving forward in the senate.

Email Senator Ellen Anderson or call 651-296-5537.
Email Senator Warren Limmer at: sen.warren.limmer@senate.mn or call: 651-296-2159.