Bill > SB301

This bill amends Hawaii's existing dog liability law to introduce an additional financial penalty for dog owners whose dogs cause damage while on agricultural land. Specifically, the bill modifies Section 142-74 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to establish that if a dog destroys property while on private property zoned for agricultural use, the dog's owner will not only be responsible for paying for the damages, but will also be required to pay a mandatory fine of at least $1,000. The bill maintains the existing provisions that require dog owners to either confine or destroy a dog that has caused damage, and allows counties to enact their own ordinances regulating dog owners whose animals have injured or destroyed another person's property. The bill clarifies some language in the existing statute, such as replacing "[so]" and "[the]" with more precise wording. The new provisions will take effect on July 1, 3000, and do not impact any rights, penalties, or proceedings that occurred before the effective date. The bill aims to provide additional protection and financial deterrence for property owners in agricultural zones who may suffer losses due to dogs.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=301&year=2026