Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00346

Introduced
1/20/11  
Introduced
1/20/11  
Refer
1/20/11  

Caption

An Act Concerning Liability For Damage Caused By A Dog.

Impact

The bill's potential impacts on state laws include establishing a more comprehensive framework for animal injury cases. By explicitly mentioning injuries to companion animals, the bill provides a legal pathway for affected individuals to seek compensation for veterinary expenses, the monetary value of the animal, and burial costs. This could lead to increased accountability among pet owners and possibly influence future cases involving animal injuries, offering a clearer recourse for victims whose pets are harmed due to another dog owner's negligence.

Summary

SB00346, introduced by Senator Roraback, seeks to modify the existing liability laws related to injuries caused by dogs. The proposed amendment to section 22-357 of the general statutes specifically clarifies that damages applicable to the property of another person can include injuries sustained by companion animals, such as dogs or other domestic pets. This legislative change aims to extend the responsibility of dog owners or keepers to encompass not only the damages to human property but also to the animals themselves when harm is caused by their dog.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB00346 may arise from debates about the implications of expanding liability for pet owners. Advocates for animal rights and pet owners may support the bill as a means to protect animals and ensure their welfare, aligning with broader movements for companion animal rights. Conversely, opponents could argue that such a change in liability might impose undue financial burdens on dog owners and could lead to excessive litigation. Additionally, concerns may be voiced about double standards in how economic damages are assessed in cases involving animals compared to human injuries, potentially complicating legal proceedings.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05257

An Act Concerning Liability For Damage To Person Or Property Caused By A Dog.

CT SB00426

An Act Concerning Court Operations And Administrative Proceedings.

CT HB05288

An Act Aligning State Law With Federal Law Concerning Service Animals.

CT SB00296

An Act Establishing A Task Force To Study The Enforcement Of Certain Provisions Of The General Statutes Concerning Roaming Livestock And Amending Certain Statutes Concerning Roaming Livestock.

CT HB05256

An Act Concerning Liability For Injuries Inherent In Camping While At A Private Campground.

CT SB00427

An Act Concerning Police Animals And Dogs In Volunteer Canine Search And Rescue Teams.

CT HB05223

An Act Concerning Minor Revisions To Agriculture Related Statutes And To Open Space Acquisition Related Statutes.

CT SB00003

An Act Concerning Consumer Protection.

CT SB00002

An Act Concerning Artificial Intelligence.

CT HB05422

An Act Concerning Hate And Bias Crimes.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.