01
Create a distinct legal category
Establish a companion-animal legal status that reflects the special relationship between people and the animals who share their homes.
The proposal
A clearer legal status for companion animals.
Bowie’s Act asks South Carolina lawmakers to recognize companion animals as more than ordinary property while preserving the responsibilities that protect animals, families, and communities.
Explore the proposalRecognition for the bond. Responsibility for the care.
Bowie’s Act is a citizen proposal for thoughtful legislative discussion. Final language, scope, and implementation would be considered through South Carolina’s legislative process.
What the proposal would do
02
Recognize meaningful harm
Give courts a clearer framework for considering the loss of a companion animal in situations where the law allows a remedy.
03
Support responsible care
Keep the duties of guardianship clear: humane treatment, veterinary care, licensing, restraint, and compliance with local rules.
Built with care
Recognition and responsibility belong together.
Public safety remains protected
Existing rules for dangerous animals, leash requirements, nuisance concerns, and local enforcement remain important safeguards.
Animal welfare stays central
The proposal supports humane treatment and does not weaken cruelty laws, rescue standards, or the duty to provide appropriate care.
A focused legal change
Bowie’s Act is about companion animals. It is not a change to livestock, wildlife, commercial animals, or broader property law.
Plain-language answers
What this proposal is—and is not.
Does this make animals the same as people?
No. The proposal seeks a distinct status for companion animals that recognizes their importance without treating them as human beings.
Would this remove a guardian’s responsibilities?
No. Responsible care, public safety, local ordinances, and animal-welfare obligations remain essential.
Would it change every kind of animal law?
No. The proposal is focused on companion animals and is intended to be considered carefully through the legislative process.