In Kentucky your state's organization gives a LOT of autonomy to local departments. Like other states with that situation you need to pursue legislative change. Volunteers are needed in every state with this problem. The AFA, which is the ONLY national organization which helped compile the Compendium observance data, also has put together packages to help folks in your situation, and are going to put together more from the sounds of it. My impression is that you get to avoid re-inventing the wheel, learn the techniques which HAVE WORKED elsewhere, and get access to information which can aid you. Having had these people do so very much along with me while I was putting the Compendium compliance info together for MAF on a volunteer basis, I learned that they work their tails off and achieve a lot even though they don't have enough volunteers. Changing legislation is a grass roots endevour, but that doesn't mean that you should not be able to utilize what resources already exist. I wish you well in your efforts, offer you the simple advice that such an effort works best if one individual doesn't hog the limelight because you need the strength of numbers, and you get partners rather enemies if you use persuasion with solid information rather than vitriol, you should remember to play a bit of politics with quiet and friendly passing on of information to those you want to become your allies, plus you should not forget to use professionals with pull who are already on your side such as your State Public Health Vet (Mike Auslander), and pass on to you all this person's name and address to contact at the AFA: Diane Rogers, legislative chairperson, <[log in to unmask]>. This is something YOU have to do, but the AFA can help you. (BTW, I am NOT a spokesperson for the AFA nor do I hold any position there. I simply have found that THEY actually have DONE things rather than just talking. They are like individuals like Troy Lynn and Dick Bossart that way, and like organizations such as the CDFA. You will know of others with such dedication (as do I) and you know you can trust them; I feel the same way about the AFA. It's that simple.) Hope I worded this well enough; I'm kind of blown out with this influenza. Poor Warp seems to possibly have caught it, though we aren't sure, yet, since today is her first "off" day, but Steve's watching her and I'll keeping my distance for their safety. Sukie [Posted in FML issue 2465]