ST PAUL, Minn. — A "bipawtisan" group of lawmakers has introduced a bill to designate the Labrador retriever as the official dog breed of Minnesota.
The legislation is named "Raven's Bill," after the mascot of outdoor writer Ron Schara's TV show "Minnesota Bound." Raven III was one of several black labs who showed up to wag their tails through Tuesday's news conference.
“There’s no better breed to represent Minnesota,” said Schara. “Labrador Retrievers love swimming, hunting, and the outdoors. They’re great family dogs and get along with everyone, young or old. They aren’t just our companions, they’re members of our family.”
While the bill is meant to bring some levity to the usually businesslike routine at the Capitol, Sen. Carrie Ruud says there's also a serious intent. One is to highlight the work of service dogs. The bill also offers a real-life civics lesson for schoolkids, who can track the bill's progress online, on Facebook, or on Twitter to learn how a bill becomes a law. The website encourages civic engagement by asking kids to contact their local legislators to express their opinion about the bill.
“The Labrador Retriever captures Minnesota’s famous outdoor heritage and tradition that we all enjoy across the state,” said Senator Ruud. “I’m excited to partner with Pawsitivity and Ron Schara to help raise awareness for the bill and make these dogs the official breed of our state .”
Amazingly, there is consensus on the other side of the aisle as well. "I'm happy to support this legislation and hope it will serve as a great educational resource for kids so they can track the bill and learn more about the legislative process,” said House Republican Leader Daudt. “Labs are loyal companions, talented sports dogs, and a great choice to be the official dog breed of Minnesota."
Sen. David Tomassoni notes that a similar initiative by schoolchildren led to the designation of ice hockey as Minnesota's official state sport in 2009.
