Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota House Bill HF4288

Introduced
2/26/24  

Caption

Notice of an estray required, and civil liabilities specified.

Impact

The proposed legislation aims to clarify and formalize the responsibilities of individuals who come across estray animals, which historically may have caused confusion regarding ownership and care. By establishing a structured process for notification and civil liability, the bill seeks to protect owners' rights while providing clear expectations for finders. The effective date for this legislation is set for August 1, 2024, allowing for a transition period to inform stakeholders and adjust compliance practices accordingly.

Summary

House File 4288 introduces a legislative framework pertaining to the handling of estrays—animals found by individuals whose ownership is unknown. The bill mandates that those who find such animals must either notify the owner, if known, within seven days or file a notice with local authorities within ten days if the owner is unknown. Additionally, the finder is required to post a description or photograph of the estray along with their contact information. The bill specifies penalties for non-compliance, indicating that failure to provide required notice will result in civil liability for double the damages incurred by the owner.

Contention

While the bill itself appears straightforward, the implications of its civil liability provisions may evoke discussions among various interest groups, including animal rights advocates, local governments, and those involved in animal rescue. Some stakeholders may express concerns regarding the potential burden placed on individuals who discover estrays, especially regarding the financial implications of double liability. Furthermore, local governments might debate the administrative feasibility of enforcing the new notification requirements alongside existing animal control laws, raising questions about resource allocation and public education.

Legislative history

HF4288 was authored by Representative Myers and introduced during the Ninety-Third Session of the Minnesota Legislature. It has been read for the first time and was assigned to the Committee on Judiciary Finance and Civil Law for further deliberation. As the bill proceeds through the legislative process, it is expected that committee hearings will address these concerns and refine the bill based on stakeholder feedback.

Companion Bills

MN SF3703

Similar To Notice of an estray requirement

Previously Filed As

MN SF3703

Notice of an estray requirement

MN SF756

Civil damages provision for failing to give notice to finding an estray

MN HF56

Recording and title provisions modified and updated, clarifying and technical changes made, and obsolete provisions repealed.

MN SF259

Recording and title provisions modifications

MN HF1275

Excavation notice requirements amended, excavation notice reporting required, and civil penalties for pipeline safety violations tied to federal law.

MN SB0043

Public Notice Requirements

MN HF3344

Rights and protections for residents of certain long-term care settings modified, rights and protections for clients receiving home care services and clients receiving home and community-based services modified, arbitration provisions prohibited, notices required, civil actions authorized, and money appropriated.

MN HF1426

Employee notice requirements modified, and written warning required.

MN HF4565

Higher education students with a disability documentation and other requirements specified.

MN SF4120

Custodian of a petitioner's minor children notice of any order of protection, hearing on an order for protection, and cancellation or modification of an order of protection requirement

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.