Ohio legislator plans to try again on vicious dog laws

DAYTON, Ohio (AP) — A state senator from southwest Ohio says he plans new legislation on vicious dogs, a year after the mauling death of a Dayton woman.

Sen. Bill Beagle, R-Tipp City, tells the Dayton Daily News he plans to start with areas that should have general support such as increasing fines and penalties, clarifying definitions, and increasing the amount of the time before a felon can own a dog.

Potential proposals also include creating a dangerous dog database for law enforcement, giving dog wardens more access to law enforcement systems, and requiring signage.

A dog bill stalled last year after one legislator involved died and another lost his re-election bid. Legislators have been trying to balance dog owners’ rights with tougher requirements.