HF2733

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to establish a civil cause of action in Minnesota law that allows pet owners to seek damages if their pet is injured. This includes not only covering the costs associated with the injury but also permits claims for emotional and punitive damages.

Main Provisions

• Liability for Pet Injury: The bill specifies that any person who injures another person’s pet is legally liable. This liability includes covering the costs related to the injury, which involves medical bills and actual damages. Importantly, it also includes emotional damages and punitive damages as per existing sections of Minnesota law (sections 549.191 and 549.20).
• Exemptions: The law does not apply to:
  • Licensed veterinarians performing acts within their professional practice and in accordance with state law.
  • Veterinarians requested by the pet owner to euthanize the pet.
  • Individuals acting within state laws or local ordinances that permit them to euthanize a pet.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

This bill introduces new legal definitions and scope under Minnesota law, specifically Minnesota Statutes chapter 604, by allowing pet owners to seek emotional and punitive damages related to injuries sustained by their pets, which was not explicitly addressed in prior laws.

Relevant Terms

• Civil cause of action
• Emotional damages
• Punitive damages
• Veterinarian exemption
• Pet injury liability
• Minnesota Statutes chapter 604