HOUSE DOCKET, NO. 3777        FILED ON: 1/17/2025

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The Commonwealth of Massachusetts

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PRESENTED BY:

Richard M. Haggerty

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To the Honorable Senate and House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in General
Court assembled:

The undersigned legislators and/or citizens respectfully petition for the adoption of the accompanying bill:

An Act relative to proper notification of deceased animals on state highways.

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PETITION OF:

HOUSE DOCKET, NO. 3777        FILED ON: 1/17/2025

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The Commonwealth of Massachusetts

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In the One Hundred and Ninety-Fourth General Court
(2025-2026)

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An Act relative to proper notification of deceased animals on state highways.

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows:
 

Chapter 140 is hereby further amended by striking out section 138a, as appearing in the 2022 Official Edition, and inserting in place thereof the following section:- Section138a

a) If a Department of Transportation highway employee encounters a deceased dog or cat on a state highway while on official duty, and the animal has a tag, microchip, or any other form of identification, the employee shall:

(1) Attempt to contact the owner using the information provided on the identification.

(2) Notify the local animal control officer or police department, who shall attempt to notify the animal’s owner.