Bill > S2375

This bill mandates that within three days of knowing or having reason to know a property has been vacated due to foreclosure, termination of tenancy, abandonment, or other tenant removal, the lessor or property owner, or their designee, must inspect the property for abandoned animals. If an animal is found, they must immediately notify an animal control officer, police officer, or other authorized agent about its presence and condition. Importantly, the person who finds the animal in this context will not be considered its owner or custodian. Failure to comply with these requirements will result in a civil fine of up to $500 for a first offense and up to $1,000 for subsequent offenses, with the collected funds going to the Homeless Animal Prevention and Care Fund. The bill also amends existing laws to include similar notification requirements for officers involved in summary process (eviction proceedings) and adds specific provisions for properties vacated through mortgage foreclosure.