HB439 Summary

• Proposes a constitutional amendment for Madison County authorizing procedures to declare dogs dangerous in unincorporated areas outside municipal limits.

• Dogs causing serious physical injury or death to humans can be ordered humanely euthanized; dogs declared dangerous without serious injury can be returned to owners if they meet registration requirements including rabies vaccination, spaying/neutering, microchipping, and $100,000 liability insurance.

• Establishes proper enclosure standards for dangerous dogs including lockable structures with secure sides and top sunk at least 2 feet into ground, adequate ventilation, and a "Dangerous Dog - No Trespassing" sign.

• Creates criminal penalties including Class C felony for previously declared dangerous dogs that cause serious injury or death, Class A misdemeanor for undeclared dogs with prior dangerous propensities, and Class C misdemeanor for failing to properly enclose dangerous dogs.

• Provides immunity from liability for Madison County, its officers, employees, and those issuing dangerous dog certificates or registrations; does not negate rabies control laws or existing civil remedies.