Assemblymember Schultz presented Assembly Bill 793 on the Assembly floor March 6, saying the bill would adopt a clear-and-convincing standard for proceedings that determine whether a dog is dangerous or vicious. The measure passed on a recorded vote, Ayes 55, Noes 0.

AB 793 aims to change the standard of proof in potentially life-altering dog determinations. “California's current approach to potentially dangerous dog proceedings often leads to irreversible and life altering and quite frankly, life ending decisions such as euthanasia without the confidence of a thorough and equitable process,” Assemblymember Schultz said. He added that the clear-and-convincing standard is recommended by the American Veterinary Medical Association and “ensures that decisions such as this are made with greater care and accountability.”

The bill drew explicit floor support from several members, including Assemblymember Alanis, who identified herself as a coauthor, and Assemblymember Hadwick, who recounted a family injury to explain why she supported the measure. “My niece was attacked at 4 years old from a dog and, broke her eye socket her arm. She has had six plastic surgeries since then and will have a lifetime to deal with, and so I proudly support this bill,” Hadwick said. Assemblymember Bridal also spoke in favor, noting the measure “strikes the appropriate balance of considering public safety [and] the life of the animal.”

Supporters said the bill preserves public-safety priorities while adding procedural protections for animals and owners. The author told colleagues AB 793 passed the Assembly Judiciary Committee unanimously before coming to the floor. After closing remarks from the author, the clerk opened and closed the roll; the clerk later reported the tally: Ayes 55, Noes 0. The bill was recorded as passing the Assembly.

The Assembly did not record individual roll-call votes in the floor remarks quoted on the transcript; the clerk reported only the final tally. There were no floor amendments recorded in the session transcript excerpts provided.