DE HB378

Expands enforcement authority of the Office of Animal Welfare and Department of Agriculture to include all laws for protection and control of animals, with all police officers required to assist as needed.

Establishes new dog barking violation law making it illegal to own or control a dog that causes noise disturbance by barking, whining, or howling continuously for 15 minutes or intermittently for 30 minutes or more.

Sets civil penalties for dog barking violations: $100 for first violation, $200 for second violation, and $300 for each subsequent violation.

Exempts dogs from barking violations if a person is trespassing on the property or if the dog is being teased or provoked.

Transfers authority to impose and collect fines and penalties under animal protection, fighting, dog control, and dangerous animal laws to the enforcing agency.

Effective January 1, 2024.