Orlando doggy dining plan hits roadblock

Key Florida lawmakers have vowed to nip a plan that would allow dogs to dine with their owners at outdoor Orlando restaurants.

State House members -- led by Sheri McInvale, D-Orlando -- advanced a bill to allow a three-year test of doggy dining at outdoor restaurants.

However, key senators said Orlando should not be exempt from the state law that bars feeding pets in restaurants and carries a fine up to $5,000.

"I think it's a bill destined for failure," state Sen. Bill Posey, R-Rockledge, told the Orlando (Fla.) Sentinel.

Orlando city officials said they still may go forward with a plan to allow dogs to eat at outdoor restaurants, saying many still serve the pets despite the state law that is enforced spottily.

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