Bill > S0150

This bill, named "Trooper's Law," amends Florida Statutes to add specific protections for dogs during natural disasters. The bill defines a "natural disaster" as a situation where a hurricane, tropical storm, or tornado warning has been issued for a municipality or county, or when the area is under a mandatory or voluntary evacuation order. It also defines "restrain" as attaching a dog to a stationary object using a chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or similar device. The legislation creates a new criminal offense that makes it a third-degree felony to restrain a dog outside during a natural disaster and then abandon the animal. This means a person who leaves a dog tied up during a hurricane or tornado warning and then leaves the dog behind could face up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both. The bill aims to prevent pet owners from leaving their dogs in dangerous situations during extreme weather events, providing stronger legal consequences for such actions. The law is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Criminal Justice (S)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/150