South Carolina House Bill 4611 proposes to make the unlawful removal or destruction of electronic collars or other electronic devices placed on dogs by their owners a misdemeanor.

Legislation protecting electronic collars promotes consistency in training methods for dogs. When pet owners can rely on these devices as a part of their training regimen, it helps establish clear guidelines for behavior modification. Consistency is key to successful training outcomes and maintaining the human-animal bond.

Designating the removal or destruction of electronic collars as a misdemeanor establishes legal consequences for those who interfere with a dog owner’s right to use these devices responsibly. This accountability helps deter individuals from engaging in activities that may negatively impact a dog’s training or endanger its well-being.

Legislation can serve as a platform to educate the public about the appropriate use of electronic collars and dispel misconceptions surrounding their effectiveness and safety. By supporting responsible usage, the legislation contributes to a better-informed community of pet owners.

South Carolina members are encouraged to support this bill by contacting their legislator. You can find your legislator by inputting your address in the “Find Your Legislators” at the bottom of the South Carolina Legislature Online page and let them know you are in support of this proposed bill.

For more information, please contact the Chair of the Legislation Committee at [email protected] or the Director of Oversight for the Legislation Committee at [email protected].