Talahassee, Fla. (WFLA) – When Pamrock left for the mail route on a quiet August 2022 day, no one could have imagined the tragedy that continued.
US Postal Service workers were delivering mail in Florida when they were brutally attacked and killed by a pack of five dogs.
Her death sparked statewide outrage as she tightened restrictions on dangerous dog attacks.
“She was bitten by a dog that put someone in the hospital six months earlier, but there was no law to ensure that the dog would be registered six months ago,” said Pam’s brother Daniel Locke.
After hearing these concerns, state lawmakers passed a law recently signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis.
“After the Rock Family reached out and asked to sponsor this bill, I saw firsthand the urgency of addressing the threats that threatening dogs pose to our community. Public safety has always been a core part of my platform, and I concluded with a committee during the 2024 session, but I declared that I am proud of DeSantis,” state Sen. Jay Collins (R. Tampa).
The new law includes:
Essential Reservoir: Dogs that seriously injured or killed a person must be confiscated and retained immediately during investigation. Owner Accountability: A dog owner classified as a risk from an attack is required to obtain at least $100,000 in liability insurance when released by the owner and to ensure that the pet is securely locked up. Microchipping and Identification: Dangerous dogs must be microchipped, and chip removal constitutes a third felony. Public Awareness: Animal shelters must notify potential employers if a dog is declared dangerous, ensuring transparency and public safety.
The newly signed “Pamlock Act” marks both an emotional milestone and a major change in Florida law. But what does that mean for a dog owner?
8 On your part, Bill Sponsor State Sen. Jay Collins and Representative Judson Sapp went to get the answer, as if who determined the dog was “dangerous.” And whether people need insurance now.
Representative Judson Sapp said most Floridians don’t own these dangerous types of dogs, and Florida law already defines what is considered dangerous.
Dog damage; Dangerous dogs:
“Dangerous Dog” means a dog, according to appropriate authorities records.
(a) have been aggressively bitten, attacked, put in danger or seriously injured by a person on public or private property;
(b) Seriously injured or killed livestock while deviating from the owner’s property. or
(c) When chasing, chasing, or approaching a person on the street, sidewalk, or public basis, with an obvious attitude of aggression, provided that such actions are proven in a statement sworn by one or more persons and have been faithfully investigated by appropriate authority;
“Under new law, dogs may be classified as ‘dangerous’ regardless of breed.
aggressively bite, attack, or
Showing a person seriously injured and unprovoked in public, or
They repeatedly injure or kill other livestock. A scenario that makes you chase a dog
Protecting your own garden squirrel, hunting, or property or handler
Specifically, it has been excluded. The process begins when the authorities find a sufficient cause.
Investigation will assess the severity of the incident using a Dunbar dog
Biting evidence-based tools that help ensure consistency and information
The decision, Senator Collins said.
Ultimately, it is up to your local law enforcement or animal control to decide based on reports and investigations.
People need to carry insurance after July 1, 2025. If a dog is deemed “dangerous,” the bill sponsor says it is a wise move that dog owners should consider.
