Sec. 12.
(1) The owner of a large carnivore is liable in a civil action for the death or injury of a human and for property damage, including, but not limited to, the death or injury of another animal, caused by the large carnivore. This act does not limit the common law liability of the owner of a large carnivore for the death or injury of a human or for property damage caused by the large carnivore.
(2) If a large carnivore escapes or is released, intentionally or unintentionally, the owner of the large carnivore shall immediately contact a law enforcement officer of the local unit where the escape or release occurred to report the loss, escape, or release. The owner of the large carnivore is liable for all expenses associated with efforts to recapture the large carnivore that is released or escapes.
(3) The owner of the large carnivore may bring against a person who is responsible in whole or part for the escape or release of the large carnivore a civil action for damages, including, but not limited to, damages and expenses under subsections (1) and (2).
History: 2000, Act 274, Imd. Eff. July 7, 2000