AN ACT RELATING TO ANIMALS AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY -- CRUELTY TO ANIMALS

HB 5926 creates a legal cause of action allowing pet owners to sue for intentional or negligent injury or death of their domestic dog or cat (defined as a pet kept in or near the household). It sets minimum compensation of $500 for serious injury and $750 for death, with a maximum cap of $7,500 for noneconomic damages like loss of companionship. The law applies only when the incident occurs on the owner's property or under their direct supervision. It excludes government entities acting in public health or animal welfare roles and does not cover veterinary costs or other claims.