MI HB5915

Amends Michigan's dangerous animals act to create separate classifications for "potentially dangerous dogs" and "dangerous dogs," with distinct legal requirements and penalties for each category.

Requires owners of dangerous dogs to obtain registration certificates (minimum $100 fee), maintain liability insurance of at least $100,000, sterilize and vaccinate the dog, obtain identification tattoos or microchips, and comply with strict confinement requirements including muzzles when off-property.

Establishes court procedures for declaring dogs dangerous or potentially dangerous, including impoundment authority, hearing requirements, and discretionary destruction orders if the dog poses significant threat to public health and safety.

Imposes criminal penalties ranging from misdemeanor charges (up to 90 days imprisonment and $250-$500 fines) for violations to felony charges (up to 4 years imprisonment and $2,000+ fines) for owner non-compliance or attacks by previously adjudicated dangerous dogs.

Requires animal control departments to maintain registries of potentially dangerous and dangerous dogs, mandates owner notification to utility companies and postal services, and authorizes local governments to enact similar ordinances.