HB147 Alabama 2010 Session

Updated Feb 27, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Randy Hinshaw
Democrat
Session: Regular Session 2010
Title: Madison Co., dogs, dangerous dogs in unincorporated areas of county, county commission by resolution may establish procedure for determining, dog required to be kept in fenced enclosure, civil penalties, const. amend.
Summary: This constitutional amendment would let Madison County, in the unincorporated areas outside city limits, set procedures to declare dangerous dogs, allow civil penalties for owners of dogs that severely injure someone, and require dangerous dogs to be kept in a fenced enclosure with input from the local humane society.
What This Bill Does
If approved, the Madison County Commission could create a formal process to declare a dog dangerous. It could levy civil penalties on owners whose dogs inflict severe personal harm, and require that those dogs be kept in a fenced enclosure. The rules would apply only in Madison County's unincorporated areas and would involve input from the local humane society.

Who It Affects
Residents living in Madison County's unincorporated areas (potential enforcement of dangerous-dog rules and penalties).
Dog owners in unincorporated Madison County (subject to dangerous-dog designations, penalties, and containment requirements).
Local humane society (input and involvement in implementing the rules).
Madison County government / County Commission (responsible for establishing procedures and enforcement).

Key Provisions
The Madison County Commission, by resolution, may establish procedures to declare a dog dangerous in unincorporated areas and impose civil penalties on owners of dogs that inflict severe personal harm.
Dangerous dogs, as defined by the commission, must be kept in a fenced enclosure (as defined by the commission).
The commission's actions involve input from the local humane society.
The amendment requires voter approval in an election and would become part of the Alabama Constitution if approved.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Madison County