Arizona

Arizona HB 2137: Law passes increasing owner penalties in dog on dog attacks

Just before the deadline, lawmakers at the state capitol were able to pass a new law that increases the penalties for people who can't control their aggressive dogs.

This law was years in the making, championed by a Glendale couple whose dog was killed by a pit bull.

At the time of the attack, according to state law, the owner of dog who's pet attacked and killed another dog  was not penalized.

Richard and Sally Andrade turned their tragedy into a fight for new legislation addressing dog attacks....

After a year of work, HB 2137 is headed to the Governor’s desk for her signature.

The bill makes it a misdemeanor if a dog, classified as aggressive, attacks a person or domestic animal. The owner can also get hit with a misdemeanor if the aggressive dog escapes the owner’s yard or leash.

Source: Law passes increasing owner penalties in dog on dog attacks by Tyler Baldwin / Natalie Rivers, azfamily.com