Florida lawmakers have unanimously passed CS/HB 593, known as the Dangerous Dogs bill, moving it one step closer to becoming law. The measure now awaits Governor Ron DeSantis’ signature.

The bill was introduced in February by state Reps. Judson Sapp and Webster Barnaby, following the death of rural mail carrier Pamela Rock, who was fatally mauled by a pack of aggressive dogs in Sapp’s district.

“This bill was brought to me by the Rock family after Pamela’s tragic death,” Sapp said in a statement. “Her loss is a stark reminder of the need for stronger protections.”

The legislation passed the House with a 115-0 vote and received full support in the Senate with all 36 senators voting in favor.

Under the bill, any dog involved in a fatal attack or a bite rated 5 or higher on the Dunbar bite scale must be impounded during the investigation.

The law also imposes new responsibilities on owners of dogs deemed dangerous, including a requirement to carry at least $100,000 in liability insurance and to have the animal microchipped.

Additionally, dog owners who are aware of their pet’s dangerous tendencies must keep the animal confined in a locked, fenced yard that prevents access by young children.

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