Poland’s Sejm failed to reject a veto by Minister Karol Nawrocki on December 17, leaving a controversial dog‑cage ban law in limbo after a heated clash between the government and opposition MPs.
Veto Dispute Inflames Parliament
On Wednesday, Dec. 17, the Sejm reviewed a veto by Minister Karol Nawrocki on the so‑called chain law, a draft banning dogs in cages. The debate turned personal when Zbigniew Bogucki of the President’s Office clashed with Vice‑Marshal Dorota Niedziela over opposing views of the bill.
Vote Fails to Overturn Veto
The Sejm could not achieve the required 3/5 majority of 263 votes when at least half the 438 MPs were present. Ultimately, 246 members voted to reject the veto, while 192 opposed it; 22 MPs abstained.
Key Provisions of the Chain Law
The vetoed bill banned keeping dogs in cages and required caregivers to provide a reinforced, covered floor area of at least 10 m² for dogs under 20 kg, 15 m² for those 20‑30 kg, and 20 m² for those over 30 kg. Dorota Niedziela argued the law sets a minimum standard, not a cruelty ban.
Political Reaction
Zbigniew Bogucki accused the government of failing to read the law and of attacking the president, while Dorota Niedziela accused the President’s Office of avoiding meetings. Opposition parties, led by PiS, rejected the draft, citing concerns over the legislative process.
