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NH SB475
NH SB475Including a determination of the best interest of the animal in the definition of foster home.
summary
Introduced
11/21/2025
11/21/2025
In Committee
11/21/2025
11/21/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill includes a determination of the best interest of the animal in the definition of foster home.
AI Summary
This bill modifies the legal definition of a "foster home" in New Hampshire's state law to include a more comprehensive description that emphasizes animal welfare. Specifically, the bill defines a foster home as a private residence within New Hampshire that is associated with and inspected by an animal shelter facility, where animals can be temporarily housed when a licensed veterinarian determines it is in the best interest of the animal's health, safety, and wellbeing. The definition explicitly includes special considerations for pregnant or lactating animals, suggesting a nuanced approach to animal care that prioritizes the specific needs of different animals. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, allowing time for animal shelters and veterinarians to understand and implement the new definition. By explicitly linking foster home placement to a veterinarian's professional assessment of an animal's best interests, the bill aims to provide more flexible and compassionate temporary housing options for animals in need.
Committee Categories
Agriculture and Natural Resources
Sponsors (9)
Regina Birdsell (R)*,
Daryl Abbas (R),
Kevin Avard (R),
Nicholas Germana (D),
Cathryn Harvey (D),
Dan Innis (R),
Wayne MacDonald (R),
Ruth Ward (R),
David Watters (D),
Last Action
Energy and Natural Resources Hearing (09:30:00 2/17/2026 Room 103, State House) (on 02/17/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=1223&inflect=2 |
| BillText | https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/billText.aspx?sy=2026&id=1223&txtFormat=html |
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