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Licking County Honors Warden as Avery's Law Takes Effect

1/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

At the January 8, 2026 Licking County Commissioners meeting, officials honored Larry Williams, Licking County Chief Dog Warden.
Avery Russell, the 12-year-old namesake of Avery’s Law, is associated with the signing by Governor Mike DeWine.
Avery’s Law expands dog regulations to allow immediate seizure of dangerous dogs and penalties for negligent owners.
The law will take effect March 18, 2026, after a statewide investigation found inadequacies in current dog laws.

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Story summary

At the January 8, 2026 Licking County Commissioners meeting, officials honored Larry Williams, Licking County Chief Dog Warden.
Avery Russell, the 12-year-old namesake of Avery’s Law, is associated with the signing by Governor Mike DeWine.
Avery’s Law expands dog regulations to allow immediate seizure of dangerous dogs and penalties for negligent owners.
The law will take effect March 18, 2026, after a statewide investigation found inadequacies in current dog laws.