The bill aims to provide legal immunity from civil liability for individuals who damage a motor vehicle while rescuing vulnerable persons or domestic animals. It introduces new definitions for "domestic animal," "motor vehicle," and "vulnerable person" within the context of the law. A "domestic animal" is defined as a pet such as a dog or cat, excluding livestock, while a "vulnerable person" includes minors and individuals with disabilities or impairments that affect their daily living activities.
Additionally, the bill outlines specific conditions under which a person can enter a locked motor vehicle to rescue a vulnerable individual or animal without facing civil liability. These conditions include ensuring the vehicle is locked, having a reasonable belief that the person or animal is in imminent danger, notifying law enforcement or calling 911 prior to entry, using only necessary force to gain access, and remaining with the rescued individual or animal until help arrives. This legislation is designed to encourage timely rescues in emergency situations while protecting the rescuers from potential legal repercussions.