A bill for an act relating to requirements for proof of ownership of dogs and providing penalties.

HF 2016 requires owners of dogs over six months old to provide proof of ownership, such as a microchip, rabies tag, vet records, receipt, or documented history, to be recognized as the legal owner. Shelters must scan dogs for microchips upon intake and before adoption or transfer to locate owners. In ownership disputes, the person presenting valid proof is presumed to own the dog unless proven otherwise, and falsely claiming ownership is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail or a $855 fine. The bill does not change existing rabies vaccination requirements.