Arkansas House Bill HB1992

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/7/25
• Refer: 4/7/25

Caption

To Require A Certificate Of Registration For Dangerous Dogs And Vicious Dogs; And For Other Purposes.

Impact

Upon enactment, HB1992 would amend existing laws to impose stringent regulations on dog owners of declared dangerous or vicious dogs. It would require owners to secure liability insurance of no less than $50,000 and register their dogs under the new regulations. This measure is anticipated to reduce incidents of dog attacks and improve community safety regarding canines identified as high-risk. The bill also highlights a gradual shift toward stricter pet ownership laws to address public safety concerns, especially in urban areas where dog-related incidents have been notably problematic.

Summary

House Bill 1992 advocates for the establishment of a mandatory certificate of registration for dangerous and vicious dogs in the state of Arkansas. The bill defines dangerous dogs as those that cause bite injuries or attack pets, while vicious dogs are those that seriously injure or kill a person unprovoked. By implementing a registration system, the bill aims to enhance accountability among pet owners and protect the public from potential canine threats. The animal control officers will play a critical role in assessing dogs and determining their classifications based on specific incidents of aggression or injury.

Contention

While proponents argue that the bill is necessary for public safety and responsible pet ownership, critics may raise concerns about potential overreach in penalizing innocent pet owners and the implications for breed-specific legislation. Additionally, concerns about the feasibility of enforcement and the burdening of local governments with animal registration protocols may spark debate. Instances of misidentification of breeds or behaviors could lead to wrongful qualifications of dogs as dangerous or vicious, raising questions about the bill's execution.