JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Lawmakers are now requiring that pet owners include their dogs in hurricane evacuation plans.

Under the law signed by Governor Ron DeSantis in May, abandoning a dog outdoors during a named storm or while an evacuation order is in effect is now classified as a third-degree felony.

The legislation, known as Trooper’s Law, was named in honor of a bull terrier who was found chained to I-75 during Hurricane Milton in 2024. The law aims to ensure that no dog is left in harm’s way during hurricane conditions, an offense that can now result in serious legal consequences.

Penalties under Trooper's Law can result in up to $10,000 in fines and up to 5 years in prison for felony abandonment.

Offenders can also receive first-degree misdemeanor charges for leaving dogs in flood-

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