BOSTON—The State of Massachusetts is considering a bill (HB 1250) that will allow for non-economic damages (including emotional distress and loss of companionship) in suits for malicious injury or killing of a pet and has scheduled a committee hearing on the bill for Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010. 
 
According to the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC), "As of now, these are the only two alternative damages listed in the legislation, but this could lead to a slippery slope allowing for other non-economic damages.  Non-economic damages are not determined by an actual monetary loss and juries often have great discretion in making awards.  As written, HB 1250 leaves much discretion."
 
A consistent opponent of legislation that grants non-economic damages to pet owners, because it can subject breeders, pet product manufacturers, retailers, veterinarians and others to excessive claims and would raise the cost of companion animals for the public, PIJAC is calling on interested parties to contact committee members to voice opposition.
 
HB 1250 will be heard before the Joint Judiciary Committee at 1:00 p.m., in Room A-1 of the State Capitol in Boston.  Contact information for committee members is available on the PIJAC website.