Arizona proposes fines for pets in front seats

Drivers in Arizona could face fines of up to $250 for unsafe pet travel. A new proposal, called Senate Bill 1270, aims to regulate where pets can sit in vehicles. The bill is set for a hearing in the state Senate and could become law on January 1, 2026. Under the proposed law, fines would start at $75 for first-time offenders if a pet is sitting on their lap. Repeat offenders could be fined as much as $250. Authorities are urging pet owners to use proper restraints for their animals, especially larger dogs. Dog advocate Lara Iacobucci Paris warned about the dangers of pets in the front seat. She highlighted that an airbag could seriously injure a pet during an accident. Paris hopes the new fines will encourage safer behavior among drivers. Sandy McPadden, co-founder of Little Lotus Rescue, shared a personal story about a pet that distracted a driver. She recommends using booster seats or harnesses to keep pets safe during travel. McPadden believes all drivers should take steps to prevent possible injury to themselves and their pets. Both women agree that animals need protection and should not be allowed to roam freely in moving vehicles.