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Bill

HB 2152

RELATING TO DOG ATTACKS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Luke Evslin and 13 co-sponsors

Hawaii bill HB 2152 establishes or modifies dog attack liability rules and enforcement mechanisms, advancing unanimously through agriculture and judiciary committees with amendments.

Act 114, 06/08/2026 (Gov. Msg. No. 1214).
#dogattacks #liability #livestock #agriculturaldistrict
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Bill Summary · HB 2152

Legislative bill overview

HB 2152 addresses liability and enforcement mechanisms related to dog attacks in Hawaii. The bill has progressed through the Agriculture Committee and Judiciary Committee with amendments, receiving unanimous support from both committees. The specific provisions are not detailed in the action history provided, but the bill focuses on establishing or modifying rules governing dog attack incidents and owner responsibility.

Why is this important

Dog attacks can result in serious injuries, medical costs, and emotional trauma for victims. Clear statutory liability frameworks help ensure victims have recourse while establishing fair standards for dog owners, affecting both public safety policy and pet owner rights across the state. The bill's progression through two committees suggests substantive policy refinement occurred before advancing.

Potential points of contention

  • Liability standards: Disagreement over whether owners should be held strictly liable for all dog attacks or only those involving negligence or prior knowledge of the dog's dangerous propensities
  • Breed-specific provisions: Potential controversy if the bill includes breed-specific restrictions, which animal welfare advocates often oppose as discriminatory and ineffective
  • Enforcement and penalties: Disputes over appropriate financial penalties, criminal consequences, or mandatory dog containment/removal requirements that balance public safety with owner rights

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

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