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HB 1196

Crimes; offense of criminal trespass involving a wild animal; provide

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Debbie Buckner and 5 co-sponsors

Georgia creates criminal trespass offense when wild animals are involved in property violations, expanding trespass law to target animal-related property entry incidents.

Senate Passed/Adopted As Amended
#animals #crimesandoffenses(criminalcode) #revenueandtaxation
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1196

Legislative bill overview

HB 1196 creates a new criminal offense in Georgia for trespassing that involves a wild animal. The bill appears to establish criminal liability when someone enters another's property with a wild animal, or potentially when a wild animal is used in the commission of trespassing. This adds a specific animal-related dimension to existing trespass statutes.

Why is this important

This bill addresses a gap in Georgia's criminal code by targeting incidents where wild animals are involved in property violations—a scenario that may not be adequately covered by standard trespass laws. It could affect property owners' legal recourse, hunters or wildlife enthusiasts who cross property lines, and potentially animal handlers or circus operators.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional ambiguity: The bill's language regarding what constitutes "involving a wild animal" could be unclear—does the owner need to intentionally bring the animal, or is mere presence sufficient?
  • Intent and liability: Questions about whether criminal liability requires the defendant's knowing involvement with the animal or if unintentional situations (e.g., an animal naturally crossing boundaries) could result in charges
  • Enforcement challenges: Law enforcement may struggle distinguishing between genuinely criminal conduct and accidents involving wildlife crossing property lines

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

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