Governor Ron DeSantis signs new Florida laws increasing penalties for abandoning or abusing dogs during emergencies
Loxahatchee, Florida – In a move aimed at cracking down on animal cruelty and neglect during emergencies, Governor Ron DeSantis signed two new laws this week: Trooper’s Law and Dexter’s Law. The legislation introduces stronger criminal penalties for abandoning or abusing dogs in Florida, marking a significant step forward for animal welfare in the state.
Senate Bill 150, known as Trooper’s Law, targets the act of restraining and leaving dogs outdoors during declared natural disasters or evacuation orders. Under the new law, such behavior will now be treated as a third-degree felony, with violators facing up to five years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
“Across Florida, we have seen horrifying instances of animal cruelty that demand a stronger response,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “I was proud to sign Trooper’s Law and Dexter’s Law today. Florida stands by man’s best friend.”
Read also: Coral Springs man faces domestic violence charges following violent argument over family puppies
Trooper’s Law was inspired by a widely reported incident during Hurricane Milton, when a dog named Trooper was found chained up in dangerous conditions and was rescued by Florida Highway Patrol. The bill also strengthens existing animal welfare regulations by codifying requirements for food, water, and exercise for confined animals. Failing to meet these basic needs, or abandoning an animal, is now classified as a first-degree misdemeanor.
In addition to Trooper’s Law, Governor DeSantis also signed House Bill 255, known as Dexter’s Law. This legislation addresses the sentencing of aggravated animal cruelty cases and aims to prevent repeat offenses. The law is named after a shelter dog named Dexter who was killed in a brutal incident in Pinellas County shortly after being adopted.
Dexter’s Law introduces a sentencing multiplier of 1.25 for cases of aggravated animal cruelty, which will allow courts to impose tougher sentences on offenders. A key feature of the bill is the creation of Florida’s first-ever animal abuser registry, intended to track individuals convicted of such crimes and prevent future abuse by alerting shelters, adoption agencies, and law enforcement.
Animal rights advocates and law enforcement agencies across the state have voiced strong support for the new laws, saying they offer long-overdue protection for vulnerable animals and a more powerful tool for holding abusers accountable.
Both laws take effect immediately and are expected to have a direct impact not only on prosecution efforts but also on prevention, especially during Florida’s hurricane season when evacuation orders are common.
Governor DeSantis emphasized that these laws represent Florida’s ongoing commitment to ensuring humane treatment of animals and holding violators accountable. For residents, the message is clear: leaving a pet behind or treating it cruelly will no longer be tolerated.
