Bill > HB2622

This bill modifies existing Virginia law regarding the responsibilities of individuals who find companion animals. Specifically, the bill increases the civil penalty for failing to properly notify an animal's owner and local animal shelter from $50 to $500 when someone finds a companion animal and either provides care, safekeeping, or controls the animal's activities. Under the law, the finder must make a reasonable attempt to notify the owner within 48 hours if the owner can be identified through tags, licenses, collars, tattoos, or other markings. Additionally, the finder must contact the public animal shelter in the locality where the animal was found, providing contact information, a description of the animal, and details about where the animal was found. The bill maintains the existing requirement that the finder must also comply with other relevant animal care provisions. This legislative change aims to enhance accountability and encourage more responsible behavior when individuals encounter lost companion animals by significantly increasing the potential financial consequence for non-compliance.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB2622