Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Judiciary Committee

ESB 5200

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Title: An act relating to marauding dogs.

Brief Description: Concerning marauding dogs.

Sponsors: Senator Brandland.

Brief Summary of Engrossed Bill

  • Repeals provisions relating to the duties of an owner or sheriff to kill a dog.

Hearing Date: 3/19/09

Staff: Courtney Barnes (786-7194)

Background:

Under Washington law, pet owners are required to kill their dog within 48 hours of being notified that the dog killed a domestic animal. An owner who fails to comply with this requirement is guilty of a misdemeanor. A sheriff or deputy sheriff is required to kill any dog found running at large without a metal identification tag between the months of August and March.

Summary of Bill:

The law requiring an owner to kill his or her dog within 48 hours of being notified that the dog killed a domestic animal is repealed. The law requiring a sheriff to kill any dog found running at large without a metal identification tag between the months of August and March is repealed.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.