Bill > HB448

This bill adds a new section to the Texas Health and Safety Code that allows a municipal animal control authority to seize and impound a dangerous or aggressive dog in its extraterritorial jurisdiction (areas outside the municipal city limits) under specific conditions. An "aggressive dog" is defined as a dog that makes an unprovoked attack on a domestic animal or livestock, causing bodily injury, and occurs outside of a secured enclosure. The municipal animal control authority can take action if it receives a notarized affidavit signed by at least two residents from different households in the extraterritorial jurisdiction, who allege that the dog has repeatedly attacked humans, domestic animals, or livestock, and that the dog's presence makes the area unsafe. This authority to seize and impound the dog is only applicable if there is no existing animal control authority in the extraterritorial jurisdiction, or if the existing animal control authority does not provide for the seizure of dangerous or aggressive dogs. The bill would take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in both legislative houses, or otherwise on September 1, 2025.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB448