On Thursday, February 29, 2024, the Maryland Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee will hold a hearing on a bill seeks to remove 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 of the injury could be held responsible for reasonable and necessary cost of veterinary care up to $10,000.
Senate Bill 868 would remove the current limit on the costs for which someone could be liable for compensatory damages only.
How to Submit Comments:
Those wishing to comment on SB 868 may contact members of the Committee or submit public comment either 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.