Lawmakers Suggest Allowing Dogs On Patios

Being a dog owner, I struggle to find many places that are dog friendly. But, according to an article in the Lansing City Pulse, those dog friendly places may become more commonplace in Michigan.

Three republican state senators have introduced a bill that would permit dogs on patios and other outdoor service areas of Michigan restaurants. It's in effort to boost tourism after multiple requests from Northern Michigan restaurant owners to allow such flexibility. The bill would also allow local governments to adopt more restrictive policies.

Opponents of the bill cite issues with public health and the costs of re-training restaurant staffers to handle the new canine customer base; how to handle accident cleanup safely and how to handle a bite situation.

If the bill is passed, restaurants who decide to allow dogs will be required to have a separate entrance area for diners with dogs.