National Football League

Michael Vick to lobby for law to protect animals in hot cars

Published Dec. 8, 2015 11:29 a.m. ET

foxsports

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) Michael Vick is heading to the Pennsylvania statehouse to lobby legislators on a bill that would help protect pets left in hot cars.

Vick was a star quarterback for the NFL's Atlanta Falcons when he pleaded guilty in 2007 to being part of a dogfighting ring and ended up serving 21 months in prison.

He's now a backup quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

A Vick spokesman says he plans to meet with Democratic lawmakers Tuesday about legislation nicknamed the ''Pets in Cars'' bill. It would allow first responders to break into cars to rescue dogs or cats in distress without fear of being held liable for damages.

Since his 2009 release from prison, Vick has worked on a number of animal welfare issues.