KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Local governments in New Hampshire could soon gain the authority to require muzzles for dogs deemed a danger to other animals under new legislation introduced in the state legislature. House Bill 250, sponsored by State Representative Jodi Newell (D-Keene), would allow municipalities to regulate the muzzling of dogs, a power currently restricted to cases involving rabies outbreaks.

Keene City Councilor Bobby Williams is urging the city to back the bill, which he says could help communities address safety concerns raised by aggressive dogs. In a letter to the mayor and council, Williams recounted a case brought to his attention last year by a resident whose dog had been attacked. At the time, Keene’s Planning, Licenses, and Development Committee explored drafting an ordinance to require muzzles for dogs with a history of attacks. However, the initiative stalled after the city attorney determined that state law did not grant municipalities the necessary authority.

If passed, HB 250—dubbed “Suzette’s Bill”—would enable towns and cities to adopt regulations for muzzling dogs, providing local governments with a tool to address public safety concerns. The bill has garnered support from several Keene-area representatives, including Phil Jones, Nicholas Germana, Samantha Jacobs, and Terri O’Rorke.

Councilor Williams has requested that the mayor write a letter to the House and Senate committees considering the bill, urging its passage. He has also asked that the city attorney testify in support of the legislation.

HB 250 has been referred to the House Environment and Agriculture Committee but has not yet been scheduled for a vote. Keene’s Planning, Licenses, and Development Committee will review Williams’ request for city support at an upcoming meeting.