Iowa HF2016 establishes proof of dog ownership requirements and penalties for misrepresentation.

Iowa HF2016 mandates that a dog over six months of age is considered property only if proof of ownership is provided. Acceptable proofs include a rabies vaccination tag, tattoo, microchip, receipt, contract, medical records, or documented history of ownership. In legal disputes, the person with proof of ownership is presumed to be the owner, a presumption that can only be overcome by a preponderance of evidence. The bill also penalizes those who knowingly misrepresent dog ownership with a simple misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in confinement and a fine of $105 to $855.

Iowa HF2016 establishes proof of dog ownership requirements and penalties for misrepresentation.

Iowa HF2016 mandates that a dog over six months of age is considered property only if proof of ownership is provided. Acceptable proofs include a rabies vaccination tag, tattoo, microchip, receipt, contract, medical records, or documented history of ownership. In legal disputes, the person with proof of ownership is presumed to be the owner, a presumption that can only be overcome by a preponderance of evidence. The bill also penalizes those who knowingly misrepresent dog ownership with a simple misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in confinement and a fine of $105 to $855.