Florida has implemented new legislation requiring owners of dangerous dogs to secure at least $100,000 in liability insurance coverage. The law, known as the Pam Rock Act, was signed into effect this week by the governor. It mandates that owners of dogs that have bitten humans or killed/injured pets must obtain liability coverage, keep the animals in a secure enclosure with warning signs, microchip and neuter the dogs, and maintain up-to-date rabies vaccination certificates. The legislation, which takes effect on July 1, aims to strengthen existing dangerous-dog laws that have been in place since 1990. According to the state Department of Health, over 600 Floridians are hospitalized annually due to dog bites, resulting in approximately two deaths each year. Recent incidents, including the fatal mauling of a postal worker in August 2022 and the attack on an 86-year-old woman in early 2023, have highlighted the need for stricter regulations. The new law also authorizes animal control authorities to euthanize dangerous dogs that have been surrendered and requires animal shelters to provide information about a dog’s history to prospective adopters. Owners who disregard a dog’s dangerous propensities will face a first-degree misdemeanor charge, representing a slight increase in the level of violation from previous regulations.
Key Provisions of the New Law
- Mandatory $100,000 liability insurance coverage for owners of dangerous dogs
- Requirement to keep dangerous dogs in secure enclosures with warning signs
- Microchipping and neutering of dangerous dogs
- Maintenance of current rabies vaccination certificates
- Animal shelters must disclose dogs’ history to potential adopters
- Animal control authorities can euthanize surrendered dangerous dogs
- Enhanced penalties for owners who ignore a dog’s dangerous tendencies
The legislation is a response to a growing number of dog attacks across Florida. Lawmakers have emphasized the importance of strengthening the state’s dangerous-dog statutes to prevent future tragedies. The law is set to take effect on July 1, giving dog owners and animal shelters a few months to comply with the new regulations.
