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HB 436

An Act amending Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in riot, disorderly conduct and related offenses, further providing for prohibition of ownership of certain animals.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Missy Cerrato and 15 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania bill restricts ownership of certain animals under criminal law, likely targeting public safety concerns but affecting pet owners and raising property rights questions.

Referred to Agriculture & Rural Affairs
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Bill Summary · HB 436

Legislative bill overview

HB 436 amends Pennsylvania's criminal code by adding or strengthening restrictions on ownership of certain animals, placed within the riot and disorderly conduct section of Title 18. The bill was recently referred to the Agriculture & Rural Affairs Committee, suggesting it may involve dangerous or exotic animal ownership prohibitions.

Why is this important

Animal ownership restrictions can affect public safety, animal welfare, and personal property rights. Depending on which animals are targeted, this could impact dog owners, exotic pet enthusiasts, or those using animals in agriculture or sport. The placement within disorderly conduct laws suggests a link to public safety concerns.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's text is not yet fully detailed, leaving unclear which specific animals would be prohibited—this could range from pit bulls to exotic species to farm animals
  • Constitutional property rights: Restrictions on existing pet ownership may face challenges regarding compensation or grandfather clauses for current owners
  • Enforcement disparities: Questions about how restrictions would be enforced fairly across urban and rural areas, and whether penalties are proportionate to violations

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

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