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2017 SESSION

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SB 959 Va Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; landlord to inspect vacated dwelling for abandoned animals.

Introduced by: Lionell Spruill, Sr. | all patrons    ...    notes | add to my profiles | history

SUMMARY AS PASSED SENATE:

Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; abandoned animals; penalty. Prohibits a tenant from abandoning a companion animal either during the tenancy or after vacating the dwelling unit and provides that the penalty for such abandonment is a Class 3 misdemeanor.

SUMMARY AS INTRODUCED:

Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; landlord to inspect vacated dwelling unit for abandoned animals; penalty. Requires a landlord who knew or should have known that a dwelling unit has been vacated to inspect such dwelling unit for the presence of any abandoned animals. If an abandoned animal is discovered, the landlord is required to notify an animal control officer or law enforcement of the presence and condition of the animal but shall not be considered the owner or custodian of the animal. Bill also provides for a civil penalty of $500 for failing to comply with the inspection and notification provisions with the proceeds deposited into the Literary Fund.