HB 2387
An Act amending Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in particular rights and immunities, providing for liability for wrongful death of companion animal.
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill amends Pennsylvania law to allow pet owners to sue for damages if their companion animal (including dogs, cats, and other animals) dies due to the intentional, reckless, or negligent actions of another person or their animal. Owners can recover up to $15,000 in non-economic damages, plus the animal’s market value, to compensate for the loss of companionship and affection. The bill also establishes a smaller damage award of $5,000 for injuries resulting in death, with adjustments for inflation.
Key provisions
- Allows pet owners to sue for wrongful death of a companion animal.
- Provides for up to $15,000 in non-economic damages for death caused by intentional, reckless, or negligent acts.
- Provides for up to $5,000 in non-economic damages for injuries resulting in death.
- Includes the animal’s market value in the damages calculation.
- Specifies factors to be considered when determining the market value of the animal.
- Establishes a process for adjusting damage amounts annually to account for inflation.
- Excludes certain entities (non-profits, governmental agencies) and situations (livestock defense, euthanasia) from liability.
- Defines ‘companion animal’ to include various types of animals.
Who is affected
- Pet owners
- Individuals who own or care for companion animals
- Animal owners
- Veterinarians
- Potential defendants in animal-related injury lawsuits
Notable changes
Sponsors
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Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
Darisha K. Parker
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