On Wednesday, February 5, 2025, the Maryland House Judiciary Committee will consider a bill that seeks to increase the cap on compensatory damages for which a person who tortiously causes an injury to or death of a pet is liable.
Those who wish may comment on this bill using the information below.
Summary:
Under current law, a person who causes the death of a pet could be held responsible for the fair market value of the pet before death and the reasonable and necessary cost of veterinary care up to $10,000. In the case of an injury to a pet, the person who causes the injury could be held responsible for reasonable and necessary cost of veterinary care up to $10,000.
House Bill 438 would increase this limit to $25,000.
How to Submit Comments:
Those wishing to comment on HB 438 may contact members of the Committee or submit public comments in writing, in person, or via Zoom.
Committee members contact information can be found here (click on the member’s name).
The Committee’s Witness Guidelines provides instructions and timelines for submitting written comments or signing up for in person or virtual comments.
AKC Government Relations continues to monitor legislation impacting dog owners in Maryland. For questions or more information, contact AKC GR at doglaw@akc.org.