HB91 Summary

• Creates a civil cause of action for wrongful injury or death of companion animals or service animals caused by a caretaker's negligence, recklessness, or willful misconduct.

• Allows recovery of compensatory damages including fair market value, veterinary costs, burial costs, emotional distress, pain and suffering, loss of companionship, court costs, and attorney's fees.

• Permits punitive damages up to $75,000 for willful misconduct, with treble damages available specifically for service animal injuries or deaths.

• Limits lawsuits to two years from the later of either the injury/death date or the date the owner knew or should have known of the injury or death.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and gubernatorial approval.