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SB 1794

Animal Control - As introduced, requires the owner of a dangerous dog to register the dangerous dog with the animal control authority for the area in which the dog is kept for a period of three years, restrain the dangerous dog at all times on a leash or in a secure enclosure, and obtain liability insurance coverage; establishes a public dangerous dog registry. - Amends TCA Title 39 and Title 44.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Tennessee bill requires dangerous dog owners to register animals, maintain restraints, and carry liability insurance while establishing a public dangerous dog registry.

Re-refer to S. Cal Comm
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Bill Summary · SB 1794

Legislative bill overview

SB 1794 establishes a mandatory registration system for dangerous dogs in Tennessee, requiring owners to register with local animal control, keep dogs restrained on leash or in secure enclosures, and carry liability insurance. The bill also creates a public registry of dangerous dogs and amends existing animal control statutes.

Why is this important

Dangerous dog incidents can result in severe injuries or fatalities, particularly affecting children and vulnerable populations. This bill attempts to create accountability mechanisms and financial responsibility while giving the public information about potentially hazardous animals in their communities. The liability insurance requirement shifts some financial burden of injury costs from victims to owners.

Potential points of contention

  • Defining "dangerous dog": The bill references existing definitions in TCA Title 39 but doesn't specify criteria; disputes may arise over which dogs qualify, potentially affecting breed-specific policies or individual dog assessments
  • Public registry privacy and misuse: A publicly accessible dangerous dog registry could enable vigilantism, property devaluation, or discrimination against owners; data security and accuracy concerns exist
  • Enforcement burden and cost: Local animal control agencies must manage registration, verification, and compliance; unclear who bears administrative costs and whether rural areas have adequate resources
  • Insurance availability and affordability: Liability insurance for dangerous dogs may be difficult to obtain or prohibitively expensive, potentially forcing non-compliance among low-income owners

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

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