CO: Denver Moves to Legalize Pit Bulls and End the Breed Ban

After 30 years, Denver looks to repeal the ban against pit bulls and other terriers.
The ban on pit bulls and other breeds is closer to ending after the Denver City Council voted for repeal on Monday night. Pit bulls have been banned from Denver since 1989, when the Denver Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) took place and prohibited pit bull breeds in the city.

The bill sponsored by District 8's Chris Herndon proposes to create a provisional license for three pitbull-related breeds.


Even though the first vote towards repeal passed, several Denver City Council members were concerned about completely removing the breed-specific legislation.

Local action groups, like Replace Denver BSL, have made it their goal to educate people on how the breed ban does not prevent dog attacks. In fact, it might actually make it worse. In their website, Replace Denver BSL states that Denver consistently ranks as one of the worst in the nation for most dog bites, even higher than other Colorado communities without BSL.

Additional information provided by Replace Denver BSL states the ban fails to improve public safety, wastes taxpayer dollars, and rejects evidence-based solutions.

The first vote has passed, but there still would be several requirements pit bull owners must meet with Denver Animal Protection. Owners will still have to provide proof that the animal has a registered microchip implanted and proof of vaccination is mandatory.

The proposal would also require an application for a breed-restricted license that includes the owner's name and address, two emergency contacts, and a description and photograph of the animal.


Additionally, the owner can not have more than two pit bulls at one time. If the dog has escaped or attacked someone, Animal Protection must be notified within eight hours of the incident.

If there have been no violations during the dog's probationary three-year license period, the owner can reapply for a new license.

The City and County of Denver passed the ban back in 1989 after there were two reported attacks that resulted in death and serious injury. According to the repeal proposal, a study by the American Veterinary Medical Association concluded that pit bulls are not any more dangerous in comparison to other dogs. Currently, more than 100 cities have completely repealed the breed-specific ban.

Maria-Emilia Garcia 2/7/20
https://ourcommunitynow.com/news-local/denver-moves-to-legalize-pit-bulls-and-end-the-breed-ban