HB277 Summary

• Establishes procedures for declaring dogs dangerous through county or municipal court petitions filed by county attorneys, municipal attorneys, or municipal prosecutors based on unprovoked attacks causing physical injury, serious physical injury, or death to a person.

• Dogs declared dangerous that caused serious physical injury or death must be humanely euthanized; dogs declared dangerous but causing only physical injury may be returned to owners if they meet registration requirements including rabies vaccination, microchip identification, spaying/neutering, secure enclosure with specific construction standards, and a $100,000 surety bond.

• Creates criminal penalties ranging from Class A misdemeanors to Class B felonies for dog owners who violate the act, including owners of previously declared dangerous dogs that attack persons and owners with prior knowledge of dangerous propensities who demonstrate reckless disregard.

• Prohibits declaration of dangerous dogs in cases of trespassing, self-defense by the dog, response to pain or injury, or disturbance of natural functions; excludes dogs used by law enforcement.

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