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Florida Enacts Trooper’s Law to Combat Animal Abandonment During Disasters
In a significant move to enhance animal welfare, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed “Trooper’s Law,” a new legislation that imposes stringent penalties for abandoning dogs during natural disasters or evacuation orders. The law, inspired by the harrowing rescue of a dog named Trooper during Hurricane Milton, marks a pivotal step in Florida’s ongoing efforts to combat animal cruelty.
Trooper’s Law, officially known as Senate Bill 150, makes it a third-degree felony to restrain or abandon a dog outdoors during a declared state of emergency, with offenders facing up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. This legislative measure was prompted by the widely publicized case of Trooper, a bull terrier found chained and submerged in floodwaters as Hurricane Milton approached Tampa Bay in 2024. The dog’s rescue by Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Orlando Morales captured national attention, underscoring the dire need for stronger protections for pets during crises.
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Governor DeSantis emphasized the importance of the new law, stating, “Leaving a dog chained up in the path of an ongoing storm is inhumane, and under this law, it will be a crime that carries up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.” The legislation reflects Florida’s commitment to being a “law and order state,” extending these principles to the protection of animals during emergencies.
The bill was spearheaded by Senator Don Gaetz, father of U.S. Representative Matt Gaetz, and Representative Griffitts, highlighting a bipartisan approach to addressing animal welfare issues. This law is part of a broader initiative in Florida, as Governor DeSantis also signed “Dexter’s Law,” which increases penalties for aggravated animal cruelty and establishes a statewide database for convicted abusers, effective July 1, 2025.
Trooper’s story, which saw him rescued from rising waters and subsequently adopted into a loving home, has not only inspired legislative change but also galvanized public support for animal protection. The Leon County Humane Society launched a campaign encouraging adoptions, with Trooper’s tale serving as a powerful reminder of the 3.3 million dogs nationwide in need of forever homes.
As Trooper’s Law prepares to take effect on October 1, 2025, it stands as a testament to Florida’s resolve to ensure the safety and well-being of its animals, particularly in times of natural disaster. This legislation not only honors Trooper’s resilience but also sets a precedent for other states to consider similar measures to protect vulnerable pets during emergencies.
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