ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — All Maryland dog owners would be equally liable if their dogs bite someone but also would have a chance to defend themselves in court under a bill approved by the Maryland General Assembly on Thursday.

The House of Delegates gave final approval to a compromise measure that now goes to Gov. Martin O’Malley. An O’Malley spokeswoman, Nina Smith, said the governor will make a decision based on a customary review of the bill.