Governor Ron DeSantis signed two significant animal welfare bills into law today, Trooper’s Law (SB 150) and Dexter’s Law (HB 255), signaling a stronger commitment to protecting animals across the state. The new legislation introduces stricter penalties for animal abandonment, particularly during natural disasters, and enhances consequences for aggravated animal cruelty.
“Across Florida, we have seen horrifying instances of animal cruelty that demand a stronger response,” said Governor Ron DeSantis during the signing in Loxahatchee. “I was proud to sign Trooper’s Law and Dexter’s Law today. Florida stands by man’s best friend.”
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Trooper’s Law (Florida Senate Bill 150) aims to prevent pets from being left vulnerable during emergencies. Inspired by the rescue of a dog named Trooper who was found chained and abandoned during Hurricane Milton last year, the law elevates the act of restraining and abandoning a dog outdoors during a declared natural disaster or under a mandatory or voluntary evacuation order to a third-degree felony. This offense is now punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Furthermore, Trooper’s Law codifies existing penalties for failing to provide confined animals with sufficient food, water, and exercise, and for general animal abandonment, classifying these as first-degree misdemeanors with similar potential fines.
Dexter’s Law (Florida House Bill 255) focuses on strengthening penalties for those who commit severe acts of animal cruelty and aims to prevent future offenses.
Named in memory of a shelter dog who was tragically killed in Pinellas County just days after being adopted, this law enhances penalties for aggravated animal cruelty, notably by introducing a 1.25 sentencing multiplier for offenders.
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A key component of Dexter’s Law is the creation of Florida’s first statewide animal abuser database. This registry is intended as a tool to help prevent known abusers from re-offending and to assist communities and shelters in protecting vulnerable animals.
The passage of these two laws reflects a growing concern for animal welfare in Florida and a legislative push to ensure that those who harm animals face appropriate and significant criminal penalties.
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