![](/images/Headers/header3.png)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 6, 2013
MEDIA CONTACTS: Collin Nash, Ryan Mulholland, & Sam Marksheid | (516) 869-7794
Congressman Israel Speaks at N. Hempstead Animal Shelter and Urges Passage of Legislation to Protect Pets During Disasters
Bill Successfully Passes in the House
Port Washington, NY – North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jon Kaiman recently welcomed Congressman Steve Israel to the North Hempstead Animal Shelter where the legislator called on fellow lawmakers to pass a measure that will provide funding for non-profit organizations that help animal shelters care for pets during disasters.
Congressman Israel said at a June 3rd news conference, “Congress must pass this legislation so funding is accessible and animal shelters can focus on caring for these pets during disasters without worrying about how they will be able to cover all the costs.”
The Town of North Hempstead was instrumental in caring for dozens of dogs displaced during Superstorm Sandy. Supervisor Jon Kaiman said, “I commend Congressman Israel for advocating for shelters like ours across New York so our pets receive the care they deserve the next time a disaster hits.”
On June 6th, this bill passed in the House of Representatives. If it becomes a law, funding would be provided through FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund and other grant programs and would be distributed through the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Bill which will be considered on the House floor this week.
![](/images/Feeds/IMG_6430.JPG)
Pictured from left at a June 3rd news conference at the North Hempstead Animal Shelter are Dr. Robert Slifkin, President of the Shelter Connection, U.S. Congressman Steve Israel, North Hempstead Public Safety Commissioner and North Hempstead Animal Shelter employee Scott Halleran who is handling Toscano, a three-year old shelter dog.