OLYMPIA, Wash. — The Washington State Senate passed Senate Bill 5833, a measure that strives to protect pets from extreme weather.
Sponsored by Sen. Keith Wagoner, the bill addresses a conflict in state law by allowing vehicle engines to run unattended for up to 30 minutes to provide climate control for pets.
“This bill is fundamentally about animal safety and common sense,” said Wagoner (R-Sedro-Woolley). “We currently have a situation where a well-intentioned pet owner might be forced to choose between breaking one law by leaving their car running to keep their dog cool or breaking another by leaving them in a hot car. SB 5833 provides a practical middle ground, ensuring owners can use their vehicle’s heating or cooling systems for short periods to prevent animal distress, provided the vehicle is secured. It removes that ‘Catch-22’ and ensures we are prioritizing the welfare of the animal.”
Wagoner shared that his inspiration for the bill came from his 4-year-old German shepherd, LaiLa.
“Being a pet owner myself, it’s heartbreaking to think of an animal suffering in a locked car during the summer months,” Wagoner said.
The bill, which passed the Senate 48-0, now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration.
