BY DAN HILDEBRAN
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law a bill that requires the immediate impoundment of dangerous dogs, mandates insurance coverage for dogs that have attacked people, and raises public awareness of the problem of hazardous animals.
DeSanits signed the Pam Rock Act during a ceremony on May 21, surrounded by members of Rock’s family.
The 61-year-old Melrose letter carrier was killed in August 2022 after being attacked by five dogs in Putnam County.
According to a news release by State Rep. Judson Sapp, the dogs had a known history of aggression, and their owner had previously attempted to surrender them to animal control without success.
Also in attendance was the family of Michael Millett. Michael, an 8-year-old boy from Volusia County, was killed by a dog while riding his bicycle in his neighborhood in January of this year.
Sapp said he was grateful to DeSantis for providing a ceremonial bill signing that honored the memory of Pam, Michael, and all dangerous dog victims.
“This legislation is not just a policy change; it’s a proclamation to every Floridian that their safety matters,” said Sapp. “Pamela’s tragic death was a preventable loss, and with this act, we aim to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again.”
Sapp said the new law introduces several key measures, including
-Mandatory Impoundment: Dogs that have severely injured or killed a person must be immediately confiscated and held during investigations
-Owner Accountability: Owners of dogs classified as dangerous after investigation due to an attack are required to obtain at least $100,000 in liability insurance upon release back to owner, and ensure their pets are securely confined.
-Microchipping and Identification: Dangerous dogs must be microchipped, and removal of the chip constitutes a third-degree felony.
-Public Awareness: Animal shelters must inform potential adopters if a dog has been declared dangerous, ensuring transparency and public safety.
