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Wash. Lawmakers Mull Banning Pit Bull Bans

Payette County, Idaho bans pit bulls. Medford, Oregon is considering a ban of its own. But some Washington state representatives want to ban the bans.

Dog lovers dominated a Thursday hearing on a measure that would block local ordinances that prohibit specific breeds.

Among the advocates present was Zak Thatcher, an emergency room nurse and bull terrier owner.

“I see a lot of dog bite victims, and I have to tell you when you try to point out which dog is the problem, it’s impossible. It can be a Labrador, it can be a cocker spaniel. There really is no consistency,” he said.

If lawmakers pass the measure, Washington towns such as Yakima, Enumclaw and Royal City would have to repeal their breed-specific bans. However, the bill’s primary sponsor says it’s unclear whether she has enough support.