SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) – Springfield residents have voted down a ban on pit bulls.

The Springfield News-Leader reports that voters on Tuesday overturned the controversial ban on pit bulls that the City Council passed last year. The ban would’ve grandfathered in current pets but prohibited residents from owning any new pit bulls. It was set to take effect in January but a successful petition put the issue to voters.

The City Council began considering the dog ordinance after two toddlers and their mother were attacked by a neighbor’s pit bulls last year.

Kathleen Larkin is a member of Citizens Against Breed Specific Legislation. She says she’s not surprised by the outcome. Larkin says the ban would create pain for responsible dog owners who treat their dogs as part of their family.