The bill, titled "Troopers Law," amends Florida Statutes to address the issue of abandoning restrained dogs during natural disasters. It defines key terms such as "natural disaster," which includes situations where a hurricane, tropical storm, or tornado warning has been issued, or when a mandatory or voluntary evacuation order is in effect. The bill also clarifies the definition of "restrain" as attaching a dog to a stationary object or trolley system using various devices.

Additionally, the bill establishes criminal penalties for individuals who restrain a dog outside during a natural disaster and subsequently abandon the dog, classifying this act as a felony of the third degree, punishable by a fine of up to $10,000. Other amendments include the rephrasing of penalties for animal abandonment and neglect, changing the language from "is guilty of" to "commits," while maintaining the same misdemeanor classification and potential fines. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 150 Filed: 828.12
S 150 c1: 828.13
S 150 e1: 828.13
S 150 er: 828.13