California 2019-2020 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB588

Introduced
2/14/19  
Refer
2/25/19  
Report Pass
3/26/19  
Refer
3/28/19  
Report Pass
4/3/19  
Engrossed
4/11/19  
Refer
4/11/19  
Refer
4/24/19  
Report Pass
5/22/19  
Report Pass
5/22/19  
Refer
5/22/19  
Refer
5/22/19  
Report Pass
6/19/19  
Report Pass
6/19/19  
Refer
6/20/19  
Refer
6/20/19  
Enrolled
9/10/19  
Enrolled
9/10/19  
Chaptered
10/2/19  
Chaptered
10/2/19  
Passed
10/2/19  

Caption

Animal shelters: disclosure: dog bites.

Impact

The enactment of AB 588 introduces specific requirements on animal shelters, affecting how they operate and interact with the public. By enforcing these disclosure policies, the bill aims to reduce the likelihood of incidents resulting from unreported dog bites. Moreover, it underscores the responsibilities of shelters in promoting public safety while fostering responsible pet ownership. The bill also creates a local program that may involve costs borne by local agencies, prompting the state to provide reimbursements if mandated by the Commission on State Mandates.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 588, known as the Animal Shelters: Disclosure: Dog Bites bill, mandates that animal shelters and rescue groups disclose to potential dog adopters the bite history of dogs aged four months or older that have bitten a person. This legislation aims to ensure public safety by providing critical information about a dog's behavior before it is placed into a new home. The shelters must obtain a signed acknowledgment from the adopter confirming receipt of this information before any sale or transfer is completed, thereby establishing a formal record of the disclosure process.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 588 generally leans towards support for increased transparency in animal adoptions. Advocates argue that potential adopters have the right to know any relevant histories that could impact their safety or decisions. Critics, however, may express concerns about the potential stigma attached to adopting dogs with a bite history and whether this could influence their chances of finding a loving home. Overall, the bill reflects a growing awareness of the need for safety and accountability in animal adoption processes.

Contention

Though well-intentioned in its goals, AB 588 could face contention primarily regarding its enforcement and implications for animal shelters. There are concerns that requiring disclosures might lead to an increase in the euthanasia of dogs that may otherwise have been adoptable, solely based on their history of bites. Additionally, the financial burden placed on local shelters to comply with the new regulations raises questions about resource allocation and shelter capacity to manage these new responsibilities effectively.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

IL HB2793

ANIMAL WELFARE-PRO BREEDER

CA SB315

Revocable transfer on death deeds.

CA SB1305

Revocable transfer on death deeds.

CA AB1466

Real property: discriminatory restrictions.

CA SB239

Infectious and communicable diseases: HIV and AIDS: criminal penalties.

CA AB1289

Real property disclosure requirements.

AR SB550

To Change The Name Of The Arkansas Livestock And Poultry Commission To The Arkansas Board Of Animal Health.

SC S0054

Medical Informed Consent