The bill aims to enhance public preparedness for emergencies and extreme weather events in Washington by ensuring that emergency shelters can accommodate companion animals. It recognizes the significant emotional and psychological impact on pet owners during disasters, as many consider their pets to be family members. The legislation emphasizes the need for political subdivisions to incorporate cosheltering options in their local emergency management plans, identify shelters that can accommodate pets, and provide relevant information to the public regarding companion animal emergency preparedness.

Specifically, the bill mandates that political subdivisions address cosheltering in their emergency management plans, identify at least one coshelter during disaster responses, and ensure that shelters accommodating pets have appropriate safety procedures. Additionally, it requires the provision of information on local emergency shelters' pet policies, guidance for creating evacuation plans, and resources for emergency companion animal assistance. The bill defines key terms such as "companion animal," "coshelter," and "emergency shelter" to clarify its provisions.

Statutes affected:
Substitute Bill: 38.52.070