Vehicle Rescue Bill Approved By Legislature
MIAMI (CBSMiami/NSF) – A bill that provides legal protections to good Samaritans who break into locked cars to rescue animals and vulnerable people has passed unanimously in the state Senate.
The bill has also received unanimous approval in the House. It now heads to Gov. Scott for his signature.
Sponsored by House Majority Leader Dana Young, Rep. Jared Moskowitz of Coral Springs and Sen. Lizbeth Benacquisto the measure stems from situations such as pets, senior citizens and children being trapped in hot cars.
It would provide legal immunity for damage that rescuers might cause to vehicles while trying to help the animals or vulnerable people. Rescuers also would have to call 911 before or immediately after breaking into vehicles and would have to stay until authorities arrive.
The News Service of Florida contributed to this report.