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Bill

HB 1074

An Act amending the act of December 7, 1982 (P.L.784, No.225), known as the Dog Law, in injury to dogs, providing for contracts for sale of dogs and cats.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz and 12 co-sponsors

HB 1074 modifies Pennsylvania's Dog Law to regulate dog and cat sales contracts and clarify injury liability standards for companion animals.

Referred to Agriculture & Rural Affairs
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Bill Summary · HB 1074

Legislative bill overview

HB 1074 amends Pennsylvania's Dog Law (originally enacted in 1982) to modify provisions related to injuries to dogs and to establish new requirements for contracts involving the sale of dogs and cats. The bill appears to strengthen protections and regulatory frameworks for companion animals in commercial transactions.

Why is this important

Animal sale contracts directly affect consumers purchasing pets and impact animal welfare standards across the state. Changes to injury liability and sales documentation can influence breeding practices, pet shop operations, and consumer recourse if animals are sold with undisclosed health or genetic conditions.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of "injury" definition - Unclear whether the bill expands liability for breeders/sellers for genetic conditions, behavioral issues, or only physical trauma, which could significantly affect breeding operations and pet shop liability exposure
  • Contract standardization requirements - Mandatory contract provisions could impose administrative burdens on small breeders while consumer advocates may argue requirements don't go far enough to protect buyers
  • Enforcement mechanisms - The bill's enforceability depends on whether it includes penalties, dispute resolution processes, or relies on existing civil law remedies, which remains unspecified in this summary

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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