2018 Senate Bill 1227

Revise dangerous animal complaint procedures

Introduced in the Senate

Nov. 28, 2018

Introduced by Sen. Steve Bieda (D-9)

To require that when a sworn complaint is filed that an animal has caused serious injury or death to a person or a dog, the owner must be given all the evidence and communications, and make a mandatory appearance before a court. Under current law, the animal must be turned over to a proper animal control authority or kennel until the appearance, and the owner is responsible for the expense. Under the bill, the owner would not be responsible for the expense if the animal was held by an animal control authority and the animal was exonerated. The bill also prohibits officials and investigators from coercing or threatening the owner to relinquish the animal.

Referred to the Committee on Judiciary

Dec. 12, 2018

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (S-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.