Source: NBC News
California Assemblymember Rick Zbur has introduced the FOUND (Friends of Oreo Uniting During Disasters) Act, inspired by the viral reunion of Oreo the dog and his owner after the Palisades Fire. The bill aims to help reunite pets and owners separated during natural disasters by requiring local emergency plans to include pet retrieval processes. It also proposes creating emergency rescue hotlines for pet-related assistance.
The measure, AB 478, allows jurisdictions to determine specifics, including escorted reentry for pet owners with emergency personnel or humane groups. Zbur emphasized that without proper procedures, people may risk their safety to rescue pets. Advocacy group Social Compassion in Legislation, which sponsors the bill, hopes it will become a national model for disaster response. If passed by the Assembly and Senate, the bill would go to Governor Gavin Newsom for approval. Supporters believe it could set a precedent for pet rescue efforts nationwide.