LEGISLATIVE EFFORTS
THE BEGINNING
Maine Vest-a-Dog was founded on November 1, 2000 by 11 year old Kelly Davis of West Bath, with the mission to provide Maine's 60 police dogs with bullet and stab-proof vests. Within the first 10 months, over $12,000 was raised -- enough to purchase 18 bulletproof vests! Kelly educated hundreds of Maine citizens about the amazing work of police K-9s at schools, festivals, community safety days and other civic events.
MAINE'S ATTORNEY GENERAL BECOMES INVOLVED
Then Kelly received a call from Maine's Attorney General informing her about a Maine law that prohibits anyone from soliciting public funds for the benefit of law enforcement. The law is intended to protect the citizens of Maine from coercive and intimidating fundraising that would undermine the relationship between law enforcement and their communities. In cooperation with the Attorney General's Office and Maine law, Maine Vest-a-Dog suspended all fundraising activities in October, 2001.
KELLY DECIDES TO FIGHT BACK
With 40 police dogs still needing vests, Kelly decided to try to change Maine law so that Maine Vest-a-Dog could continue its efforts to protect police dogs. She contacted Senator Mary Small of Bath who submitted legislation (LD # 2090) that would change the law to allow "third party" non-profit organizations, such as Maine Vest-a-Dog, to operate.
KELLY GOES TO AUGUSTA
The public hearing for LD #2090 was held on February 12th. Kelly Davis testified before the Criminal Justice Committee in a Hearing Room filled with supporters and the media. Two weeks later, the Criminal Justice Committee unanimously voted that LD 2090 "ought to pass".
Hundreds of supporters of Maine Vest-a-Dog contacted their Legislators urging them to support LD 2090. School children wrote letters. Telephone calls were made. Kelly was interviewed by local and national media organizations about her efforts.
LD #2090 passed in the Maine House and Senate on March 21st - 22nd.
BILL SIGNING CEREMONY
On April 11th, Governor Angus King hosted a bill signing ceremony in his office. After signing the bill, the Governor asked K-9 Sarge of the Lewiston Police Department to add his seal of approval with a paw print.
LD #2090 became law in July 2002, 90 days after the adjournment of the Legislative Session.
