Bill > HB1217

This bill establishes a new process for individuals who board, pasture, or otherwise care for animals like horses and cattle to place a possessory lien on those animals for unpaid charges related to their care and maintenance. A possessory lien means the caregiver can keep possession of the animal until the charges are paid, and this bill specifies they can hold the animal for up to 30 days unless the owner pays, agrees to an extension in writing, or a court orders otherwise. It also creates a procedure for animal owners to dispute the lien or the amount owed in general district court, with hearings to be held quickly to determine the lien's validity and reasonableness of charges. If the court finds the owner has met their obligations and the caregiver has unreasonably withheld the animal, it can order the animal's return, set conditions for payment, or award damages if the lien was imposed in bad faith. Crucially, for the lien to be enforceable, the caregiver must provide written notice to the animal's owner within 10 days of the lien's start, detailing the animal, the charges, and the services provided. This new process is being created separately from existing laws that govern liens for storing boats, aircraft, and harnesses.

Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB1217