Bill > SB327

This bill addresses the rights of animal owners when receiving veterinary services by explicitly prohibiting veterinarians from requiring an animal owner to surrender their animal or leave the animal with the veterinarian simply because the owner has not paid for the treatment. The legislation includes language that overrides any existing laws or common law practices that might have previously allowed veterinarians to retain an animal as a form of payment or collateral. By using the phrase "notwithstanding any contrary provision of law or common law," the bill makes it clear that veterinarians cannot withhold an animal from its owner due to unpaid medical treatment fees. This provision aims to protect pet owners from potentially losing their animals because of financial disputes and ensures that veterinarians must seek payment through other legal means, such as billing, collections, or legal action, rather than holding an animal hostage.

Business and Industry

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB327