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.

Significantly, the bill introduces criminal penalties for individuals who restrain a dog outside during a natural disaster and subsequently abandon the animal, classifying this act as a felony of the third degree, punishable by a fine of up to $10,000. Additionally, it modifies existing language regarding the abandonment of animals, changing the phrasing from "is guilty of" to "commits" for various offenses related to animal care and abandonment, while maintaining the penalties for such actions. 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