The Maryland House of Delegates and State Senate have each passed a bill this week to increase the cap on compensatory damages for which a person who tortiously causes an injury to or death of a pet is liable.
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 and Senate Bill 581 would increase this limit to $25,000.
House Bill 438 has been sent to the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee and Senate Bill 581 has been sent to the House Judiciary Committee. As of yet, neither bill has been scheduled for a hearing.
The Maryland legislative session ends April 7, 2025.
How to Comment:
Those wishing to comment on HB 438 may do so by contacting the members of the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee. Committee members contact information can be found here (click on the member’s name).
Those wishing to comment on SB 581 may contact members of the House Judiciary Committee. Committee members contact information can be found here (click on the member’s name).
AKC Government Relations continues to monitor legislation impacting dog owners in Maryland. For questions or more information, contact AKC GR at doglaw@akc.org.