DE HB427

Establishes statewide consistency for dangerous dog determinations by replacing the Dog Control Panel procedure with Justice of the Peace Court proceedings under Title 16, Chapter 30F.

Prohibits declaring any dog dangerous or potentially dangerous based solely on breed or perceived breed; determinations must be based on the dog's individual actions or demonstrated vicious behavior.

Adds explicit language that no dog can be considered dangerous for animal fighting criteria alone, aligning criminal liability standards across Title 11 and Title 16.

Prohibits municipalities from enacting ordinances or regulations that restrict dogs based on breed or perceived breed.

Maintains affirmative defenses for owners whose dangerous dogs act in self-defense, including trespassing animals, provoked attacks, or full compliance with confinement and restraint requirements.