Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Michael Vick (2) smiles while stretching and talking with new teammates as head coach Mike Tomlin walks by during practice, August 26.
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In 2007, Vick was sentenced to 23 months in prison for his role in a dogfighting ring, ultimately serving 19 months in Leavenworth, Kansas.
Vic is still trying to change the way people perceive the Steelers quarterback and this latest trip to the Pennsylvania State House will help a great deal on people looking at him differently. He’s pushing lawmakers to pass PA House Bill 1516, nicknamed the “Pets in Cars” bill. If officers were needed to step in and rescue the animal, the bill provides that they can not be threatened with litigation for any necessary damages to remove the animal from the vehicle.
Meet Michael Vick, animal rights activist.
“All animals require kindness and respect, ” Vick said. I was part of the problem when I was at my lowest.
Seventeen states have laws making it illegal to leave pets in vehicles on warm days, according to the Humane Society of the United States. He publicly supported last year’s Animal Fighting Spectator Prohibition Act, which President Obama signed into law, and has also become active in both animal welfare and at-risk children advocacy groups. “Unlikely advocates, together we will be agents of change”.
“I don’t know how long I will play football, but I do know that I will continue being an advocate”, Vick said. “I made decisions to make change and I stand by them”.
State Rep. Jake Wheatley Jr. and State Rep. Ed Gainey from the Pittsburgh area will host Vick’s legislative visit.
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Vick is encouraging fans to sign a petition on his Facebook page for the Pets in Cars bill.
