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HB 1515

An Act amending the act of December 7, 1982 (P.L.784, No.225), known as the Dog Law, providing for insurance.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nancy Guenst and 1 co-sponsor

Pennsylvania Dog Law amendment adding insurance requirements for dog owners to address liability and injury costs from dog-related incidents.

Referred to Housing & Community Development
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1515

Legislative bill overview

HB 1515 amends Pennsylvania's Dog Law to add insurance-related provisions. The bill would require or regulate insurance coverage related to dog ownership, though the specific details of the insurance requirement are not provided in the bill summary.

Why is this important

Dog-related incidents can result in significant liability and injury costs. Insurance requirements could protect victims of dog attacks while also incentivizing responsible ownership and reducing the financial burden on municipalities and animal control systems.

Potential points of contention

  • Burden on low-income dog owners: Mandatory insurance could increase the cost of dog ownership, potentially affecting lower-income residents and leading to more animals being surrendered to shelters
  • Insurance market availability: Insurers may refuse coverage in certain areas or for specific dog breeds, creating gaps where owners cannot obtain required coverage
  • Enforcement and administration: The bill would require a mechanism to verify compliance, raising questions about enforcement costs, penalties for non-compliance, and how municipalities would monitor coverage

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

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