Supporters of an amendment to ban greyhound racing in Florida launched their campaign Monday at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, with several grassroots speakers and Republican Senator Dana Young.

Protect Dogs – Yes on 13 is an online campaign that is working to inform voters about what they call the cruelties of dog racing. The group is sponsored by Grey2K USA and the Humane Society of the United States.

“Greyhound racing is cruel and inhumane,” said Kate MacFall, the group’s co-chair. “Dogs are kept in small cages up to 23 hours a day.”

Sen. Young has been advocating for greyhounds since she was a Florida Representative. Young filed a bill in 2011 trying to remove the required minimum number of live performances for a greyhound permit holder.

“Today we are celebrating the fact that the voters here in the state of Florida can finally have a say in the fate of greyhound racing here in our state,” said Young. “After this amendment passes, no more will these dogs have to run around a track with no one watching.”

After the press conference, the campaign premiered a video explaining their cause.

“A dog dies on the Florida track every three days, said MacFall. “We will show voters direct evidence of cruelty and confinement in the days ahead.”

Amendment 13 is on the ballot this November.

Copyright 2020 WUSF Public Media - WUSF 89.7. To see more, visit .