Amendment to allow car break-ins to rescue animals, if necessary

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WTVQ) – A Kentucky senator wants to add animals to a current law that allows people to break into cars in order to save a child.

Senator Morgan McGarvey has pre-filed legislation that, if passed, will offer civil protection to someone who causes damage to a vehicle in order to remove a domestic animal locked inside in the heat.

The bill is an amendment to the current “Look Before You Lock” law that offers civil protection to someone removing a minor from a hot car.

Senator McGarvey says he believes the bill is needed “to offer some protection for domestic animals – our pets – and the good Samaritans trying to save them.”

According to the senator’s office, the person who breaks into the car to get the animal out will be immune from civil liability for damages, only if they contact local law enforcement.

Additionally, the bill would require that the person remain with the animal until public safety or emergency responders arrive on scene.

The senator’s office says in the event conditions are bad enough to where the person must leave the scene with the animal, they are required to leave a note on the car with their contact information, an explanation as to why the break-in occurred, where they are now, and a notice that authorities have been contacted.

The bill will be considered when the General Assembly meets in January.