HB231 Summary

• Applies only to unincorporated areas of Mobile County and establishes procedures for declaring dogs dangerous or nuisances based on biting, causing physical injury, or damaging property without provocation.

• Dogs causing serious physical injury or death must be humanely euthanized; dogs declared dangerous or nuisance without serious injury may be returned to owner if registered with rabies vaccination, microchipped, neutered/spayed, insured for $100,000, and confined in a secure enclosure.

• Owners must complete registration within 30 days and pay annual registration fees; failure to comply results in the dog being euthanized.

• Penalties include misdemeanor fines up to $300 for first offense and $600 for subsequent offenses for violations; previously declared dangerous dogs that attack humans face Class C felony charges with up to $5,000 fine and 2 years imprisonment.

• Repeals Act 2008-127 and becomes effective immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor.