TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the “Pam Rock Act” on Wednesday, May 21, to strengthen the state’s dangerous dog laws to protect communities in honor of the Melrose mail carrier who was attacked and killed by dogs on her route on Aug. 21, 2022.

Former Rep. Bobby Payne introduced the bill after Rock was mauled by five dogs with a history of aggression, and their owner had previously attempted to surrender them to animal control without success.

Current Rep. Judson Sapp, representing southern Clay County and Melrose, joined the governor during the signing.

“"This legislation is not just a policy change; it's a proclamation to every Floridian that their safety matters," he said. "Pamela's tragic death was a preventable loss, and with this act, we aim to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again."

The Pam Rock Act introduces several key measures:
• Mandatory Impoundment: Dogs that have severely injured or killed a person must be immediately confiscated and held during investigations.
• Owner accountability: Owners of dogs classified as dangerous after investigation due to an attack must obtain at least $100,000 in liability insurance upon release back to the owner, and ensure their pets are securely confined.
• Microchipping and identification: Dangerous dogs must be microchipped, and removal of the chip constitutes a third-degree felony.
• Public awareness: Animal shelters must inform potential adopters if a dog has been declared dangerous, ensuring transparency and public safety.

The Rocks, a close-knit family of 14 siblings, traveled from across the United States to attend the bill-signing ceremony. This family’s advocacy was pivotal in bringing this legislation to fruition.

Pam Rock's family said she was transported to UF Shands Hospital in Gainesville after the attack. Doctors attempted to save her life by amputating her right leg, right arm and left ear.  The family said she lived long enough for them to say goodbye. She later succumbed to her injuries and died the next day at the age of 61.

U.S. Rep. Aaron Bean spearheaded the Pamela Jane Rock Post Office renaming in Melrose on Aug. 24, 2024.

Michael Millett's family was also in attendance. Michael, an 8-year-old boy from Volusia County, was killed by a dog while riding his bicycle in his neighborhood last January.