Bill > HB4768

This bill modifies the conditions of community supervision for defendants convicted of certain animal-related criminal offenses by updating requirements for responsible pet owner courses. Specifically, the bill mandates that online courses must be at least two hours long and now require comprehensive content about animal protection laws, including federal and state regulations on animal cruelty, dogfighting, protection of assistance animals, and laws governing animal breeding. The course must also cover responsible animal care practices such as spaying, neutering, tethering, and general animal health and welfare, as well as animal bite prevention. The bill removes previous language that gave the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation specific administrative oversight of these courses. The changes will apply to defendants placed on community supervision on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025, regardless of when their original offense occurred. This legislation aims to provide more substantive education for individuals convicted of animal-related offenses to promote better understanding of animal welfare and legal responsibilities.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4768