In Tallahassee, Florida, a bill in the Florida House of Representatives would change how dogs are classified when determining if they are to be deemed dangerous. Instead of dogs being classified as dangerous because of their breed, the criteria would change based on the dog’s behavior.
Senate Bill 614 adjusts existing “Dangerous Dog” laws in Florida, according to an analysis by the legislature.
The bill, introduced by Florida Rep. James Buchanan, R-Venice, allows public housing authorities to make rules about dangerous dogs, but it must be based on the dog’s specific biting or attacking history – thus eliminating the existing rules specific to breed. The bill would also eliminate the grandfather clause that excluded ordinances passed prior to October 1, 1990.
The bill would only apply to Sunrise and Miami-Dade Counties and would “effectively nullify regulations and restrictions on owners of pit bull dogs.” For too long, the pit bull breeds have been vilified, and it’s been unfair to label all pit bulls as dangerous dogs.
Previous data about dog bites has previously not been accurate, and in many of the cases, the breed identification has been incorrect. Just because a dog has a blockhead, doesn’t necessarily mean they are part pit bull.
“…while a dog’s genetics may predispose it to behave in certain ways… behavior develops through a complex interactive between environment and genetics.”
ASPCA
The Florida House and Senate versions of the bill have passed unanimously through multiple committees. Isn’t it about time the old laws were changed?
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