Bill > HB1276

This bill amends the New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) to establish a legal framework for compensation when a companion animal dies due to intentional or negligent actions. Specifically, the bill allows pet owners to seek up to $5,000 in non-economic damages for the loss of a companion animal, but only under specific circumstances. The damages are limited to compensation for the loss of expected companionship, love, and affection, and can only be claimed if the death occurred on the owner's property while the pet was under the owner's control. The bill includes important exceptions: it does not apply to nonprofit or government agencies acting in public health or animal welfare, does not allow non-economic damages in veterinary malpractice cases, and does not cover situations where dog killing is authorized under other laws. The legislation is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, providing a clear timeline for implementation and giving stakeholders ample time to prepare for the new legal provision.

Justice

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=2055&inflect=2