In a unanimous decision, the Florida Senate has approved a bill to protect animals during natural disasters, specifically targeting the issue of dogs left tied up outdoors. The bill, known as "Trooper's Law," would classify restraining a dog outside during a hurricane, tropical storm, or tornado warning as a third-degree felony. This could result in a sentence of up to five years in prison or a fine of up to $10,000. The origins of the bill's name came into being after a dog was discovered tied to a fence along I-75 at the height of an approaching hurricane, as reported by ClickOrlando.

Following the law's passage, with inclement weather conditions that could pose a dire threat to left-behind pets, potentially harsh penalties now loom for those who neglect their duty of care. The Senate's decision came about swiftly with a 39-0 vote. Florida Politics noted, "The bill was passed 39-0 on the Senate floor Wednesday with little discussion." The focus of the bill being dogs specifically was to align with the House version of the legislation, as stated by bill sponsor Sen. Don Gaetz in an amendment process.

The origin story of "Trooper's Law" centers around a five-year-old bull terrier named Trooper. The dog became a catalyst for change after being found abandoned during Hurricane Milton. The Florida Highway Patrol trooper who rescued him, Orlando Morales, became so integral to the canine's story that the dog was renamed in his honor, according to WFTV. The trooper's previous owner is facing charges of aggravated animal cruelty.