OFA Fiscal Note

State Impact:

Note: GF=General Fund

Municipal Impact: None

Explanation:

Requiring that the cost of care, confiscation, and maintenance of potentially dangerous animals be the responsibility of the owner or person in possession of the animal instead of the state or facility could result in a savings to the state. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is not incurring significant costs at this time, however, each case can cost thousands of dollars. There have been very few cases. Providing that the DEP does not pay the costs could result in additional cases, but the overall number of cases is anticipated to be minimal.

The bill increases certain fines and expands existing prohibitions related to endangered species. The potential revenue gain from infractions and civil penalties is expected to be minimal. It is anticipated that no one would be incarcerated under the bill. The Attorney General's office would be able to handle cases referred to it under the bill without the need for additional appropriations.