Ohio overturns law defining pit bulls as "dangerous"

pitbull no longer "vicious dog" in Ohio Ohio lawmakers have overturned the law that defined pit bulls as "dangerous and vicious" dogs. State law currently defines a vicious dog as "one that has seriously hurt or killed a person, killed another dog, or is among those commonly known as pit bulls." The Senate voted on 27-5 for Bill HB14, which changes the 20-year old definition by removing the reference to pit bulls. The change would require evidence to prove pit bulls are actually vicious.

The change also specifies that the label does not include a police dog that has injured a person or has killed another dog while on duty and is assisting law enforcement.

The measure was controversial to some dog wardens who opposed the measure, while others said the dog breed is not inherently vicious. Many dog wardens did say that singling out pit bulls has not done anything to reduce dog bites, or make communities safer from irresponsible and reckless dog owners. In fact, some claim pit bull popularity grew after the state law condemned the dogs.

The approval of HB14 does not remove breed specific legislation (BSL) from municipalities that have enacted it. But without a state-mandated definition, BSL may be easier to contest. It also signals lawmakers to strategically address neglectful or irresponsible dog owners, instead of the dog itself, with regards to of dog-related issues and public safety.

Pit bull owners may now also be eligible for standard Insurance premiums and shelters will be able to promote pit bulls for adoption.

Read the entire Bill HB 14 here.