The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1446, aims to address the issue of roaming dogs and livestock by amending Section 22-364 of the general statutes. The bill prohibits owners or keepers from allowing their dogs or livestock to roam at large on private property or public highways without being under control. It establishes that the unauthorized presence of such animals will be considered prima facie evidence of a violation. Notably, the bill removes the previous classification of violations as infractions and introduces a tiered fine structure for violations, with fines of up to $350 for a first offense and up to $500 for a second offense. Subsequent violations will be classified as a class C misdemeanor.

Additionally, the bill empowers animal control officers to seek court orders, including injunctions, to enforce these provisions. It specifies that violations concerning livestock will also be classified as infractions. Furthermore, if an owner or keeper knowingly allows a dog with known vicious tendencies to roam and it causes injury to another person, they may face fines of up to $1,000 or imprisonment for up to six months. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 22-364