Is it Really a Happy Act?

Is It Really A Happy Act?

I have received a few emails cautioning PetPAC against supporting HR 3501 (McCormick), The HAPPY Act.  PetPAC is dedicated to the private property rights of pet owners. We oppose anything that would abridge those rights.  We believe that HR 3501 does nothing to change that status. As drafted, HR 3501 is not a dependent tax deduction at all, nor is it an automatic deduction just for owning a pet.  What this measure does, is allow tax deductions for expenses you incur in caring for your pet.

This is groundbreaking legislation.  It shows that our representatives back in Washington DC recognize the importance of owning a pet of our choice and the benefits of having that pet in our home.  

The current bill does not require you to list your pets to apply for this deduction.  What you need to show (or at least have available) are valid receipts for expenses for the care of your pets.  This would entail keeping receipts for veterinary care for instance.  This is similar to keeping receipts for medical expenditures that are tax deductable. 

The deduction under HR 3501 is not a business deduction.  It does not require anyone to register as a hobby breeder business.  In fact, it specifically says there is no deduction for businesses.

In a recent interview with Congressman Thaddeus McCormick, he stated the following:

• His reason for this legislation is to provide tax relief to families who are struggling with economic hardships, resulting in them needing to surrender their pets. This measure will help make the family budget bigger, keep hard earned money in the home, and prevent many pets from being destroyed.

• HR 3501 is a work in progress – He is encouraging specific input from the pet owning community to help shape the final form of this legislation.

• 63% of people in the United States receive the many wonderful benefits of owning pets; not the least of which are companionship for our seniors, giving our children the opportunity to learn about responsibility, and the unconditional love we all enjoy.

As in all legislation, PetPAC intends to follow the course of HR 3501 to make sure it does what it says it will.  Please join us in supporting HR 3501, and send us your thoughts on how to structure this legislation so that it will benefit us all. 

PetPAC is in contact with Congressman McCormick, and will continue to forward your ideas as well as concerns