HB 5796 Summary

• Establishes definitions and classifications for "potentially dangerous dogs" and "dangerous dogs" separate from general dangerous animals, with specific criteria including dogs with known aggressive propensities, those that inflict severe injuries, or those used in dog fighting.

• Requires court proceedings for dogs classified as potentially dangerous or dangerous, with owners ordered to comply with requirements including sterilization, vaccination, licensing, secure confinement, muzzling when off-property, and notification to utility companies and service providers.

• Mandates dangerous dog registration with animal control departments within 15 days for a fee of at least $100, with visible warning signs on property and uniform registration tags identifying the dog as dangerous.

• Creates criminal penalties for owners who violate requirements or whose dogs attack individuals after being classified as dangerous, including felony charges punishable by up to 4 years imprisonment, fines of $2,000 or more, or community service.

• Authorizes local governments to enact ordinances regulating potentially dangerous and dangerous dogs consistent with the bill's provisions, and requires euthanization of dogs that attack individuals after being officially designated as dangerous.