AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 16 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO ENFORCEMENT OF LAWS FOR PROTECTION AND CONTROL OF ANIMALS AND BARKING DOGS.

This Act clarifies that police officers shall assist the Office of Animal Welfare and Department of Agriculture, as occasion requires, in enforcement of all laws for protection and control of animals. The Act prohibits the owner or person in possession or control of a dog from allowing the dog to bark for an extended period, defined as continuously for 15 minutes or more, or intermittently for 30 minutes or more. The Act exempts barking dogs if someone is trespassing on private property where the dog is located. The Act also exempts animal shelters, pet stores grooming facilities, veterinary offices and animal clinics. The Act also transfers the authority to impose and collect fines and penalties, for violations of laws relating to protection and control of animals, under this title to the enforcing agency. This Act takes effect on January 1, 2024.