CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — Why did the chicken cross the road? In New Hampshire, the answer may soon cost its owners.

The Legislature is considering a bill that would make trespassing fowl a violation, not for the chicken, but for its owners. Under the proposal, anyone who knowingly, recklessly or negligently allows their domestic fowl to enter someone else’s property without permission can be convicted of a violation if the birds damage crops or property.

The law already makes such trespassing illegal when it comes to sheep, goats, cows, horses or pigs.

Republican Rep. Michael Moffett, of Loudon, told a House committee Tuesday that a constituent’s frustration with a neighbor’s ducks led to the legislation. Committee members raised numerous questions, including whether the proposal would apply to someone whose pond attracts wild ducks.