MD HB1568

Requires all Maryland counties and municipalities to adopt local laws prohibiting dog owners from allowing dogs to be at large

Mandates local governments establish procedures for impoundment of dogs found at large by animal control or other enforcement entities

Requires local laws include civil and criminal penalties for violations

Preserves local government authority to enact more stringent measures than the minimum requirements

Takes effect October 1, 2026, with "running at large" to be interpreted consistent with Blitzer v. Breski, 259 Md. App. 257 (2023)