HI HR128

Urges all four Hawaii counties (Honolulu, Maui, Hawaii, and Kauai) to strengthen enforcement of laws and ordinances regarding off-leash animals in public spaces to protect the public and pet animals.

Requests counties coordinate their police department efforts with state park enforcement officers from the Division of State Parks when addressing violations in state parks within their jurisdictions.

Directs county police departments to improve coordination with authorized humane societies and animal welfare organizations, and to provide complainants with clear explanations of enforcement roles, impoundment procedures, and available civil or criminal remedies following dog attacks.

Calls on counties and humane societies to conduct public awareness activities highlighting the dangers posed by unleashed dogs to humans and other animals.

References Act 30 (Session Laws of Hawaii 2021) finding that dog bites rank among the top reasons for emergency room visits, and notes that serious injuries from dog attacks constitute only misdemeanor charges compared to felony assault if committed by a person.