Bill

Bill > H3932


MA H3932

MA H3932
Promoting safe dog ownership


summary

Introduced
05/30/2023
In Committee
06/15/2023
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
12/31/2024

Introduced Session

193rd General Court

Bill Summary

Relative to liability for damage caused by dogs. The Judiciary.

AI Summary

This bill amends Chapter 140, Section 155 of the General Laws in Massachusetts. It establishes that if a dog owner negligently allows their dog to cause damage to property or injury to any person, the owner or the owner's parent/guardian shall be subject to a fine of up to $2,500. This evidence of negligence can be used as prima facie evidence of liability in any subsequent civil action related to the damage or injury, with some exceptions such as if the injured party was trespassing or abusing the dog. The bill also creates a rebuttable presumption of no fault if the injured party is under 7 years old.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

Accompanied a study order, see H4517 (on 06/05/2024)

bill text


bill summary

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bill summary

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bill summary

Document Type Source Location
State Bill Page https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H3932
BillText https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H3932.pdf
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