Felony penalties for vicious dog attacks fail to win support

The Georgia House rejected a bill Monday that would have allowed prosecutors to charge dog owners with felonies when their animals cause serious injuries or kill.

House Bill 717 sailed through committee in part because of several high-profile dog attacks in Georgia in the past year.

But the proposal failed 82-73 in a floor vote, with opponents voicing concerns about owners facing a year in jail for attacks.

The bill's sponsor, Rep. Penny Houston, R-Nashville, said she will ask for reconsideration Wednesday. That is Crossover Day, the last day a bill can typically clear one chamber in time for consideration in the other.

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April Hunt

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