Ark. town to pit bull owners: You need coverage

Pit bull owners in Arkadelphia, Ark., will have to carry $100,000 of liability insurance, implant microchips in their dogs and keep them fenced under new rules passed by the city board.

The new rules take effect in 90 days from Oct. 18 in the southwest Arkansas city. If caught violating the rules, residents can face a $500 fine. The new rule also allows for animal control workers to euthanize a pit bull if it is not claimed by its owner.

City officials estimate it will cost a pit bull owner about $1,000 to comply with the new law.

The city board voted 4-2 to pass the rules. One member did not attend the meeting.

Pine Bluff passed similar rules in 2006. North Little Rock also has a pit bull ordinance, which went into effect in 2004.