SENATE RESOLUTION 48

(By Senators Gaunch, Stollings, Plymale, Laird, Unger and Miller)

[Introduced February 23, 2016.]

Recognizing Sylvia Shafer for her tireless efforts in advocating for the humane treatment of animals.

Whereas, Sylvia Shafer has dedicated 35 years of volunteerism to West Virginia’s animals and lobbying for humane legislation; and

Whereas, Sylvia Shafer served as the Director of the Kanawha/Charleston Animal Shelter for twelve years and as a board member of the Kanawha/Charleston Humane Association until 2014; and

Whereas, Due to the efforts of Sylvia Shafer, national listings consistently recognize West Virginia in the top five states for the most humane laws throughout the United States; and

Whereas, Sylvia Shafer is largely responsible for the current animal cruelty section of West Virginia’s state code; securing the mandatory spay/neutering of adopted shelter pets; cross-reporting for domestic and animal abuse; the Commercial Breeders law; banning gas-chambers; the prohibition of research labs removing animals from the shelters for experimental lab and testing purposes; and the establishment of the state’s Spay/Neuter Assistance Fund; and

Whereas, It is fitting, that the Senate honor Sylvia Shafer on Spay/Neuter Day at the Capitol; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate:

That the Senate hereby recognizes Sylvia Shafer for her tireless efforts in advocating for the humane treatment of animals; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward a copy of this resolution to Sylvia Shafer.