In 1989, Denver, Colorado introduced a city-wide ordinance that has banned dogs who appear to be more than 50% pit bull. This Breed-Specific Legislation was enacted with the intention of protecting people from dog attacks. However, the law is just not effective and has cost taxpayers millions of dollars. It has also contributed to the euthanization of thousands of pit bulls, which is absolutely heartbreaking. 

It’s also remiss to think that some people aren’t just ignoring the citywide ordinance. There’s a good likelihood that there are pits in the Denver area which are being confined to their homes. 

Earlier this year, Denver City Council attempted to repeal the bill, but unfortunately, Mayor Michael Hancock ended up vetoing it. He explained his decision to KUSA of Denver, stating “If this were to become a law in our city and harm comes to someone as a result, then we would have done a disservice to the people of Denver.” 

The group Replace Denver BSL expressed their distress over Mayor Hancock’s veto. 

"We are devastated and angry and ready to keep fighting the good fight," wrote the group. 

Thankfully, if you are a Denver resident, you have the chance to replace Denver’s BSL by voting yes on 2J before November 3. This proposal, written by council member Chris Herndon, was written to replace the pit bull ban. Instead, those who own pit bulls must obtain a breed-restrictive license. 

Herndon explained to be granted said license, pit bull owners  will need to provide “the address where the dog will reside, two emergency contacts, a description of the pit bull and a recent photograph, proof that the dog is microchipped and current on vaccinations, and pay an annual fee.”  The dog will then be put on a 3-year probationary period, until they can have a “regular license” like any other breed. The proposal also states that only two pit bulls can live in a household at a time. 

Those who live outside of the Denver area can also helped replace the city’s BSL. Consider either becoming a volunteer for Replace Denver BSL or donating money to the cause.