- Jan 30, 2025 -

WASHINGTON STATE - K9 Kavalry, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting veterans and their service dogs, is pleased to announce a significant advancement in the passage of HB-1371 / SB 5410 "Ranger's Law". This legislation aims to grant handicap parking privileges to veterans with a 70% VA connected disability who have service dogs.

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Ranger's Law has been a key initiative for K9 Kavalry for 3 years, involving dozens of volunteers and supporters and over one hundred hours of proactive engagement. "Our mission here is to extend the lives of all veteran service dogs across the State and the Nation," says Dan Regester, Executive Director and CEO of K9 Kavalry.

 

Last night, the Washington State House of Representatives Transportation committee unanimously approved HB-1371, moving it forward to a full House vote. The companion bill, SB 5410, is scheduled for a hearing before the Senate Transportation committee on February 3rd.

Key Points:
 

• Veterans with a service dog and a 70% disability rating (or higher) will be eligible for handicap parking placards, handicap plates, or both

• This initiative has big bipartisan support with over two dozen legislators co-sponsoring the bills.

• Ranger's law can potentially benefit hundreds of service dogs and their veteran handlers across Washington.

• If passed, the law could take effect as early as October 2025

• The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs reports that the number of veterans using service dogs has more than doubled in the last 10 years

• The impact on safety and accessibility for veterans with service dogs will be immediate.

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Dan Regester, Executive Director and CEO of K9 Kavalry, stated:

"In Washington state, veterans with service-connected disabilities rely on their service dogs as lifelines, reducing PTSD symptoms by up to 82%. Yet, every time these veterans venture out, they face a battlefield in our parking lots. Standard parking spaces force a perilous dance between vehicles, risking both veteran and dog safety. Handicap parking spaces offer just 24 inches more - a small difference that could save lives and preserve independence."

 

He goes on to explain the reasoning behind yesterday's unanimous yes vote in the Washington House of Representatives Transportation Committee for HB 1371.

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"PTSD and other psychiatric injuries of war are codified disabilities according to law, eligible for services and benefits through the VA. Service dogs, like wheelchairs, are recognized medical devices for treating these injuries. They require space for safe handling and deployment, especially in public. Washington provides that accommodation for a large number of such devices, except, by omission, Service Dogs. This bill represents the difference between danger and safety, between isolation and community engagement. It's a simple yet powerful way for Washington to truly honor our veterans and ensure their service dogs remain safe and ready for duty."

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K9 Kavalry calls on Washington State residents to support this crucial legislation by submitting testimonials about why Ranger's Law is important to them. Written testimony can be submitted on HERE (SB 5410).

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As an all-volunteer group of veterans leading this initiative, K9 Kavalry also welcomes donations to support their ongoing efforts. These contributions directly fuel the fight for improved quality of life for veterans and their indispensable canine companions.

 

Media outlets, podcasters, and news organizations are encouraged to share this story, helping to spread awareness about this important legislation and its potential impact on veterans' lives.

 

About K9 Kavalry: K9 Kavalry is a Washington-based non-profit organization committed to supporting veterans and their service dogs. The organization focuses on advocacy, education, and direct support to enhance the lives of those who have served our country. For more information about K9 Kavalry and "Ranger's Law," please contact: info@k9kavalry.org or 360-967-9567