Texans Could be Required to Have Liability Insurance on Dogs
Texas motorists are already required to carry auto liability insurance , the new health care bill requires every American to carry health insurance, and now there's a new mandate in the works - dog liability insurance.
Texas State Rep. Ruth Jones McClendon (D-San Antonio) has introduced a bill that would require all Texans who own a male dog which weighs 20 pounds or more and is not neutered to have an insurance policy covering injuries or damage caused by that dog when it is off the leash or out of the dog's yard.
McClendon says "Unrestrained un-neutered male dogs over 20 pounds have a higher tendency toward aggression." She says animal care officials have told her that these types of dogs are the most likely to cause injury or property damage.
The insurance would cover injuries caused by the dogs while they are off their leash, and off their own property.
McClendon's proposal sparked a quick response from groups that represent dog owners. The U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance says it's ridiculous. A spokesman says under McClendon's bill, a person would have to buy liability insurance before taking their dog to a dog park, where they're allowed run free.
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