Maryland 2024 Regular Session

Maryland Senate Bill SB157

Introduced
1/10/24  

Caption

Domestic Animals - Penalties for Abandonment and Microchip Requirements for Dogs

Impact

The bill also aims to regulate the transfer of dog ownership by mandating that dogs must have a microchip implanted prior to the transfer. This microchipping requirement is intended to facilitate the reunification of lost dogs with their owners, as it establishes a database of ownership information. This aspect of the bill could lead to better identification of lost animals and foster responsible pet ownership, while potentially reducing the burden on animal shelters by decreasing the number of lost or abandoned pets.

Summary

Senate Bill 157 focuses on enhancing animal welfare by increasing penalties for the abandonment of domestic animals, specifically dogs. The bill makes it a misdemeanor to abandon a dog in public or private spaces, imposing stricter penalties that could include imprisonment for up to 90 days and a fine of up to $1,000. Through this legislation, the intent is to discourage the abandonment of pets and ensure that owners take responsibility for their animals. This change signifies a shift in how abandonment issues are treated legally within the state.

Contention

While the bill reflects a commitment to improving animal welfare, there may be contention surrounding local government authority. The legislation permits local governments to impose penalties for violations regarding the microchipping requirement, allowing them to tailor regulations to better fit community needs. However, this could raise concerns about varying degrees of enforcement and penalties across different jurisdictions, leading to debates over the balance between state-wide regulations and local control.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MD SB495

Research Facilities and Testing Facilities That Use Animals - Licensing and Regulation

MD SB85

Criminal Law – Animal Abuse or Neglect – Penalties

MD HB405

Criminal Law - Animal Abuse or Neglect - Penalties

MD SB792

Estates and Trusts - Registered Domestic Partnerships

MD HB755

Estates and Trusts – Registered Domestic Partnerships

MD SB194

Ground Leases – Notices and Billing – Forms and Requirements

MD HB118

Ground Leases – Notices and Billing – Forms and Requirements

MD HB1073

Homeowner Assistance Fund – Victims of Domestic Violence – Eligibility

MD SB229

Vehicle Laws - Noise Abatement Monitoring Systems - Authorization, Use, and Penalties

MD SB163

Real Property - Recordation and Land Records - Requirements

Similar Bills

CA AB2723

Animals: microchips.

CA SB573

Dogs and cats: microchip implants.

CA SB64

Dogs and cats: microchip implants.

MS SB2088

Employment; protect employees from forced human microchip implantation.

HI HB1287

Relating To Microchip Identification.

WY SF0072

Employees-forced microchip implantation prohibited.

HI HB667

Relating To Transportation.

NC S605

No Forced Microchip Implants for Employees