Bill > SB1794

This bill establishes new regulations for owners of "dangerous dogs," defined as dogs that have caused unprovoked bodily injury to a person or caused a person to reasonably fear an attack, outside of a secure enclosure. Owners of such dogs must register them with their local animal control authority for three years, maintain liability insurance of at least $100,000 to cover potential damages, and ensure the dog is always restrained on a leash or kept in a secure enclosure, which is defined as a locked, public-proof, and escape-proof fenced area clearly marked as containing a dangerous dog. The bill also creates a public registry of dangerous dogs accessible online, and outlines procedures for investigation, appeals, impoundment, and potential destruction of dangerous dogs, with owners responsible for associated costs. Failure to comply with these provisions can result in misdemeanor charges, and certain individuals like law enforcement or animal control personnel are exempt from these requirements when handling dogs in their professional capacity.