Bill > H865

This bill modifies North Carolina's dangerous dog laws by changing the definition of a "dangerous dog" and allowing for more nuanced determination of dog fighting-related cases. Specifically, the legislation removes a blanket provision that automatically classifies any dog owned or trained for dog fighting as dangerous, instead creating an opportunity for case-by-case evaluation. Under the revised law, a dog will still be considered dangerous if it has killed or severely injured a person without provocation, or if local animal control authorities determine it to be potentially dangerous based on specific behavioral criteria. The bill also clarifies that local municipalities can continue to develop and enforce their own dangerous dog control programs, as long as they remain consistent with the state's broader legal framework. The changes will take effect on October 1, 2025, giving local jurisdictions time to adjust their policies and procedures to align with the new statute.

Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H865