Wilmington lawmakers change law against pit bull owners

WILMINGTON, Del. -- The Wilmington City Council has changed a law to ensure that owners of pit bulls are treated no differently from the owners of other types of dogs.

The News Journal of Wilmington reports that the council unanimously voted Thursday to remove a requirement for only owners of pit bulls to register their dogs.

The vote was lauded by pit bull owners, but irked others who said eliminating requirements for pit bull owners jeopardizes public safety. Council members say the vote could bring about a new law that would call for strict requirements for all dogs, not just pit bulls.

The change also brings the city's animal control laws more in line with those of the state, which councilwoman Hanifa Shabazz says could take over animal control responsibilities next year.

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Information from: The News Journal of Wilmington, Del.