McMillan continues to push bill allowing pet dogs in outdoor dining areas
Submitted • May 26, 2020
Restaurant owners can still decide to allow dogs or not
(OBA®) – Though this year’s legislative session was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Rep. Steve McMillan, R-Foley, said he will continue to push his bill to allow pet dogs in outdoor dining areas of restaurants for a future legislative session.
“The bill was making good progress before all of this COVID-19 mess happened, so I think it would be something we’d want to continue in another session to get it through and get it signed,” McMillan said. “It’s kind of a no-brainer from my look at it, and I haven’t seen any major opposition come out against it.”
The bill, HB 209, passed the House overwhelmingly on March 3, but did not see action through the Senate due to the COVID-19 delays and shortened legislative session.
“Had the COVID-19 crisis not happened, I think the bill likely would have been moved through and signed by the governor well before the end of session,” McMillan said.
McMillan said he was inspired to create the bill after receiving a lot of feedback from constituents that wanted to be able to dine with their dogs in appropriate venues.
“Everybody loves their dogs and often want to bring them with them when they go places,” McMillan said. “Here in Baldwin County, and especially in my district, we’ve got a lot of restaurants that offer outdoor dining, so it just makes sense that we amend the current law to allow folks to bring their furry friends with them and enjoy the great views and good food together.”
McMillan’s bill was a statewide bill that would have affected not only his district in Baldwin County, but food service establishments around the state. He said he had also received backing from the Alabama Restaurant Association.
“This was not just a Baldwin County issue, though that’s who I heard the most from,” McMillan said. “If a restaurant has an outdoor area and wants to allow people to bring their dogs with them, I don’t see any reason why the government should be out there trying to put a stop to that.”
Under the proposed bill, the owners of food service establishments would decide whether to allow pet dogs in their outdoor dining areas. If they chose to do so, the owner would file for a waiver with the State Health Department and agree to follow prescribed rules. Signage stating the designated outdoor dining area available for patrons with dogs would also be required.
“I’m going to keep pushing this bill whenever I have the next opportunity, and I think we’ll see positive results for all Alabamians on this, including our four-legged canine friends,” McMillan said.
Share this article w/ Friends...
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – For a better part of the 2026 high school soccer season, the Orange Beach Lady Makos soccer team was ranked as the state’s No. 1 in Class 4A. But just as the state playoffs begin, the Lady Makos find themselves at No. 2 in the rankings behind area rival St. Luke’s at No. 1.
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Foley is moving forward with plans to improve signage at one of its busiest intersections. City officials say the changes will help drivers navigate the area more easily and improve the site's overall appearance. The project focuses on the intersection of Alabama 59 and U.S. 98 in downtown Foley.
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Shorebirds and coastal conservation will take center stage when the 3rd Annual Nest Fest returns to Orange Beach Waterfront Park. The community event is designed for families and nature lovers of all ages. Organizers say the afternoon will combine fun activities with easy ways to learn...
NAS Pensacola, Fla. — (OBA) — The Blue Angels are marking a major milestone today as the U.S. Navy’s legendary flight demonstration team celebrates 80 years of service and aviation excellence. Formed to showcase the skill and professionalism of naval aviators, the team continues to fly with the same purpose: inspiring
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Gulf State Park just announced that reservations are now open for its new RV resort, offering travelers the chance to secure a spot at the highly anticipated destination. The resort features spacious sites and modern amenities for comfort and convenience. Officials say the setting blends
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Interstate Mullet Toss officially begins today on the white sands of Perdido Key. This annual gathering is widely known as the Gulf Coast’s greatest beach party. Thousands of visitors are traveling to the state line to watch the weekend festival. The iconic event features participants
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — The Foley Public Works Department and the Sanitation and Engineering Department will briefly close their offices as staff relocate to new locations. This closure will last for one day while preparations are completed. City officials have stated that services will continue during the transition.
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Orange Beach Police Department is partnering with Walmart in Orange Beach for a community prescription drug take-back event. The collection is meant to give the public a place to dispose of unused prescription drugs. Organizers are asking residents to prepare medications before arriving
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources announced changes to the 2026 red snapper season that will allow more consistent access for anglers. The update applies to both Alabama state waters and federal waters for certain fishermen. Officials said the changes are part...
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – Finding leaders on your athletic team is a must for a successful season. Orange Beach Baseball Coach Josh Hoyle says he believes those leaders have helped his Makos to the state playoffs and a first-round three-game series. State baseball playoffs in Class 1A-6A begin April 24-25 in the rou
