INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - The Indiana House approved a bill that would grant immunity to anyone who breaks into a locked vehicle to rescue an endangered pet.
The measure, HB 1085, by Republican Rep. Anthony Cook of Cicero was approved Monday on a vote of 80-14.
PREVIOUS | Break a window to free a dog in a hot car? Not in Indiana | IACC, IMPD rescue dog from hot car
The bill grants civil immunity for any damage caused to a vehicle. If HB 1085 becomes law, a person would legally be allowed to break into a vehicle to rescue an animal trapped in a car – as long as that rescue meets certain conditions.
Those conditions are:
- The animal must be considered a pet, and not livestock. There is a long list of "livestock" animals under Indiana law, like cattle, swine, sheep, horses, goats, poultry bison and rabbits.
- You must believe the animal is in imminent danger if it stays in the vehicle. This could be from extremely hot temperatures or extremely cold temperatures.
- The door must be locked and forcing your way into the vehicle is the only way to get the animal out.
- You call 911 or attempt to contact a police officer, firefighter, animal control officer or emergency responder before forcing your way into the vehicle.
- You don't use any more force than necessary to enter the vehicle and get the animal out.
- You stay with the animal until authorities arrive.
LEARN MORE | Animal rescues from hot cars could become legal under proposed law | Bill that would make it legal to rescue pets from hot cars advances
The measure now goes to the Senate for consideration.
