Bill > H1817

This bill amends Massachusetts law to establish a comprehensive framework for treating pets as more than just property during divorce and separation proceedings. The legislation requires courts to consider the "best interests of the animal" when determining pet ownership, care, and custody, similar to how child custody is evaluated. Specifically, courts must examine factors such as the animal's health, safety, and well-being, as well as each party's history with the pet, including time spent caring for the animal, emotional attachment, and any history of abuse or violence. The bill allows divorcing parties to request pet custody, enables shared custody arrangements, and provides guidelines for dividing pet-related expenses and responsibilities. Courts can now create detailed custody plans that consider the animal's welfare, prevent parties from transferring or disposing of the pet without agreement, and enforce pet custody agreements through legal mechanisms. This approach represents a significant shift from treating pets as mere property to recognizing them as sentient beings with specific needs during family legal proceedings.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1817