New Maine Bill Would Make Your Barking Dog a Punishable Crime

When it comes to living in a neighborhood, whether it's a subdivision in the country or a cul-de-sac in the city, there are few things that are more annoying and can cause a rift between neighbors than a barking dog.

It's true, not even the putrid smell of your neighbor's sh***y cooking can compare to the adrenaline rush of annoyance you feel when you hear that dog start to sing the song of its people.

Fortunately, a new Maine bill aims to curb the number of unchecked barking dogs around the state. However, just like everything else, there are both supporters and opponents of the proposed bill.

How would the new bill work?

According to the Kennebec Journal, the proposed legislation would expand upon a statute already on the books which is called the 'nuisance dog law'. However, as it stands now, the existing law really just protects against dogs that cause injury or damage to other people's property.

LD 133, sponsored by Sen. Rick Bennett, R-Oxford, said he was introducing this bill because a couple of his constituents live next to a hunting dog outfit that house more than 15 dogs, many of which allegedly bark constantly.

Bennett said he didn't realize how big of an issue barking dogs in Maine are and that he believes property values could even be adversely affected because of it. However, many opponents to the bill say this could unfairly target certain dogs and that this should be left up to municipalities to handle.

What are Mainers saying about the proposed legislation?

Theresa Sol, a Livermore resident who reportedly lives next to loud dogs, said in part about the proposal,

“We are unable to enjoy ourselves and relax on our property, have a peaceful dinner on our patio with family and friends. We are also unable to sleep without hearing the out-of-control barking dogs at all hours of the day and night, especially at two in the morning.”

Rep. Mark Cooper, R-Windham, said in part about the proposed barking bill,

“I understood the case you brought up with the neighbor with 15 dogs barking 24 hours a day, and I can also see the other side of the scale where a Karen lives next door to a dog that barks twice a day, and to her that’s excessive and disturbing the peace. It’s kind of broad. It appears to be tough to interpret.”

It's too early to tell if the proposal has traction enough in the state's legislature to pass, however we will follow closely and bring you updates as we get them.