Missouri House Bill HB2287

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/6/22
• Refer: 5/13/22

Caption

Provides immunity from civil liability for persons who render assistance to animals trapped in motor vehicles

Impact

If enacted, HB 2287 will amend existing laws regarding civil liability and animal welfare, thereby providing legal protections for individuals acting in good faith to rescue animals. This change underscores a shift toward a more compassionate approach to animal welfare while addressing public safety concerns. It reflects the growing recognition of the need to support community members who intervene during emergencies affecting animals, potentially increasing the rate at which people choose to assist rather than avoid intervening due to fear of legal consequences.

Summary

House Bill 2287 seeks to provide immunity from civil liability for individuals who assist animals trapped in motor vehicles. The proposed legislation aims to encourage bystanders to help animals in distress by alleviating fears of legal repercussions in the event of an injury during the rescue. This bill is introduced in recognition of incidents where timely assistance could save the lives of animals left in perilous situations, such as extreme temperatures inside vehicles.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support from animal rights advocates and rescue organizations, there may be concerns from legal experts regarding the broad interpretation of immunity and how it could apply in various rescue situations. The discussions around the bill may involve debates on the definitions of 'assistance' and the circumstances that warrant immunity. Some may argue that without clear guidelines, the law could lead to unintended consequences if someone were to act recklessly under the guise of providing assistance.