HB5589 Summary

• Removes requirement that dogs found running at large a second or subsequent time must be spayed or neutered within 30 days after being reclaimed, eliminating impoundment as a penalty for non-compliance.

• Changes designation of dogs running at large with 3 or more other dogs from "shall be" to "may be" spayed or neutered and microchipped within 14 days after completion of all appeals and complaint proceedings.

• Establishes complaint and appeal procedures allowing dog owners to challenge potentially dangerous dog designations through either circuit court (de novo hearing within 35 days) or administrative hearing with the Department of Agriculture (within 14 days).

• Specifies that owners must comply with requirements during the appeal process but are not required to spay or neuter the dog until a final order is determined.

• Allows owners to petition circuit court at any time after a final order to reverse the potentially dangerous dog designation.