The Pam Rock Act seeks to strengthen regulations regarding dangerous dogs in Florida by introducing several key measures aimed at enhancing public safety and accountability among dog owners. The bill requires owners to securely confine their dogs in proper enclosures if they are aware of their dog's dangerous tendencies and establishes a statewide Dangerous Dog Registry, which will be maintained by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Owners of classified dangerous dogs will be mandated to obtain liability insurance coverage of at least $100,000. Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of dog owners concerning confinement and registration, and it increases civil penalties for violations, with fines reaching up to $1,000 per infraction.

The legislation also clarifies definitions related to dangerous dogs and modifies the penalties for dog attacks, categorizing them as misdemeanors if a dangerous dog attacks a person or domestic animal. It specifies that dogs under investigation for dangerous behavior must be confiscated until the investigation concludes. The bill emphasizes the need for animal control authorities to report detailed information about dangerous dogs, including vaccination status and liability insurance, to the department. Overall, the Pam Rock Act aims to provide clearer guidelines for managing dangerous dogs and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 572 Filed: 767.01, 767.10, 767.12, 767.135, 767.136