Legislation aimed at protecting animals during emergencies is now in the hands of Governor Ron DeSantis. The bill, known as “Trooper’s Law” (CS/SB 150), passed unanimously in both chambers of the Florida Legislature and was officially presented to the Governor on May 23, 2025.
If signed into law — or allowed to pass without the Governor’s signature — the bill would make it a third-degree felony to abandon a dog that is restrained outside during a declared natural disaster, such as a hurricane, tropical storm, or tornado warning, or when an evacuation order is in place.
Under the bill, “restraint” refers to any device — including chains, tethers, leashes, or cables — that attaches an animal to a stationary object or trolley system. The offense would be punishable by up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.
The legislation is named after a dog named Trooper, who was rescued after being tied to a fence during hurricane Milton, and it reflects growing concern over the safety of pets left behind during Florida’s increasingly intense storm seasons. The bill was sponsored by the Criminal Justice Committee and Senators Gaetz, Arrington, Garcia, Avila, Davis, and Ingoglia.
If approved, Trooper’s Law will take effect on October 1, 2025.
