Idaho – The Idaho Transportation office reported that they have officially about 1,300 Pet Friendly Licenses Plates through the end of June and continues to increase every day. In 2019, Representative Melissa Wintrow worked with former Representative Hy Kloc to pass Pet Friendly License Plate legislation. Kloc worked on the legislation for several years but fell short by a few votes when it came to the floor. Once it was finally passed in 2019, the legislation went into effect on July 1, 2019. Since then, there has been a purchase of the license plate in every county in Idaho.
Former Rep. Kloc was pleased when Idaho Transportation informed him of how successful the Pet Friendly license plate was.
“I kept fighting for the Pet Friendly license plate legislation after I left office because I knew it would be an impactful program.” Kloc explained. “Idahoans from across the state have shown that they are eager to invest in better care for our animals. It hasn’t even been available for an entire year and we have already sold 1,300. I am honored that this legislation is part of my legacy in the Idaho legislature.”
Rep. Wintrow, who co-sponsored the bill in the House, expressed her excitement that the plate was performing so well.
“When the plate went on sale, I was one of the very first people in line to purchase it.” Rep. Wintrow explained. “After a few months, I see them all the time when I’m driving around town! Idahoans love animals and they want to see them taken care of. The Pet Friendly plate has created a fund that is making a meaningful impact for low-cost spay and neutering programs. It’s so rewarding to finally see the Pet Friendly plate in full effect.”
The Idaho Humane Society has been holding the proceeds from the sale of the plate in the Pet’s Lover’s Fund. The funds will be distributed to non-profit animal shelters, municipal shelters, and 501(c)3 animal rescue groups to assist low-income citizens with spay and neutering services for their dogs and cats. There is a little over $31,000 to distribute from plate sales. An independent board not overseen by the Idaho Humane Society will distribute the funds to qualified applicants.
Any 501(c)3 animal shelter or rescue group, municipal shelter, or Idaho veterinarian can apply for a grant through the website, www.petfriendlyplate.com. Applications will be accepted July 10-24, 2020 with grants awarded shortly after.
“Every purchase of a Pet Friendly license plate makes a difference.” Lisa Kauffman, Senior State Director for Idaho and Wyoming, The Humane Society of the United States, explained. “The Idaho Humane Society does not keep any of the profits so all $25,000 will go directly to low-cost spay and neutering. If you haven’t purchased one yet, head to your local DMV to get yours!”
Pet Friendly plates can be purchased at your local DMV. Rep. Wintrow, Hy Kloc, and the Idaho Humane Society encourage Idahoans to keep buying these plates to continue funding low cost spay and neutering services in Idaho.