Licking Today

State Representative Kevin Miller announced the Ohio House of Representatives has passed House Bill 247, known as "Avery's Law." The legislation aims to impose new requirements on owners of vicious dogs to prevent attacks.

"This critical legislation will increase public safety throughout Ohio communities," said Miller, who sponsored the bill. "We must hold owners of dangerous and vicious dogs accountable when they fail to control their dogs, while also protecting dogs who are defending themselves or their households."

The bill includes several key provisions:

- It imposes criminal penalties on dog owners if they negligently fail to prevent their dog from committing an unprovoked attack.

- It authorizes local dog wardens to seize a dog immediately following such an attack.

- It revises investigation and enforcement requirements for authorities receiving complaints indicating possible violations of Dog Law provisions.

- It includes protections for dogs defending themselves, their owners, or property.

- After due process, it mandates the termination of a dog if it kills or seriously injures a person.

House Bill 247 is named in honor of Avery Russell, who was severely injured in a dog attack in Reynoldsburg, Ohio, in June 2024 when she was 11 years old.

The bill now proceeds to the Senate for further consideration.