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Bill

SD 189

An Act promoting pet safety aka Crawford's Law

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Bruce Tarr

Establishes mandatory pet safety requirements in Massachusetts to prevent animal-related injuries through new owner responsibilities and accountability standards.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 189

Legislative bill overview

SD 189, known as "Crawford's Law," establishes new safety requirements for pet owners in Massachusetts, likely focusing on preventing injuries or deaths caused by pets through mandatory precautions, licensing, or accountability measures. The bill appears to be named after a specific incident involving a pet, which typically indicates it responds to a high-profile case that prompted legislative action.

Why is this important

Pet-related incidents can cause serious injuries or fatalities, particularly to children and vulnerable populations. This legislation addresses public safety concerns while balancing pet ownership rights, potentially affecting how Massachusetts residents care for and manage their animals going forward.

Potential points of contention

  • Enforcement and cost burden: New requirements may impose expenses on pet owners through licensing fees, training mandates, or facility upgrades, raising questions about affordability and fairness across income levels
  • Scope and reasonableness: Defining which animals are covered and what safety measures are "necessary" versus overreaching is often contentious—some may view requirements as excessive, while others may see them as insufficient
  • Liability and responsibility: Determining whether responsibility falls on owners, breeders, landlords, or local authorities can create disputes about who bears legal and financial consequences

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

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