NC H986

Prohibits transporting dogs in open beds or open cargo areas of vehicles unless the dog is under physical control of a person other than the driver, humanely secured in a cage or container, or humanely restrained by a harness manufactured for animal restraint.

Establishes an infraction violation with a maximum penalty of $25.00, with no court costs assessed, regardless of the number of dogs transported in violation.

Appropriates $10,000 in nonrecurring Highway Fund money to the Department of Transportation for fiscal year 2022-2023 to study safe dog transportation issues.

Requires the Department of Transportation to submit study findings to the Joint Legislative Transportation Oversight Committee and Fiscal Research Division by January 31, 2023.

Makes the dog transportation restrictions effective December 1, 2022, for infractions committed on or after that date.