‘Dangerous Dog’ Bill Moves Out of Okla. House Committee

Owners of dangerous dogs in Oklahoma could soon face much harsher penalties if their animals attack another person if a measure passed in the House Health and Human Services Committee makes it through the full legislative process.

House Bill 2813, by State Representatives Lee Denney (R-Cushing) and Trebor Worthen (R-Oklahoma City), would make it a misdemeanor when a dog attacks another person punishable by a fine of no more than $1,000 for a first offense and no more than $5,000 for a second offense.

The bill would also make it a felony if the dog kills another person and would subject the owner to no more than five years in prison or a fine of no more than $25,000, or both.

“Owners of dangerous dogs should be held to a higher standard and need to be held responsible for the actions of their dogs,” said Denney. “There are too many dogs in this state that are unregulated or controlled by their owners. Hopefully this bill will show that the state is serious about controlling dangerous dogs.”

The bill would also require dog owners convicted when their animals attack another person to perform 40 hours of community service.

HB 2813 now moves to the House floor to receive a vote by the full body.