HB4540 - 104th General Assembly (2025-2026)

POSSESSION DISPUTES-PETS
Last Action
3/25/2026 - House: Placed on Calendar 2nd Reading - Short Debate
Statutes Amended In Order of Appearance
New Act  
Synopsis As Introduced
Creates the Companion Animal Custody Equity Act. Provides that in a possession dispute involving a companion animal, a court may consider the well-being of the companion animal regardless of the marital status of the parties. "Companion animal" means a domesticated dog or cat that resides in a household. Authorizes the court to issue temporary possession or caregiving orders, including limited visitation, if necessary to reduce stress or disruption to the companion animal. Provides that for companion animals 10 years of age or older, courts may give additional consideration to factors including continuity of environment, emotional stability, stress minimization, and maintenance of established routines. Provides that a court may, if appropriate, order mediation between the parties to resolve issues related to companion animal possession.
Actions
DateChamberAction
1/22/2026HouseFiled with the Clerk by Rep. Barbara Hernandez
1/30/2026HouseFirst Reading
1/30/2026HouseReferred to Rules Committee
2/11/2026HouseAssigned to Judiciary - Civil Committee
3/25/2026HouseDo Pass / Short Debate Judiciary - Civil Committee; 013-007-000
3/25/2026HousePlaced on Calendar 2nd Reading - Short Debate
4/06/2026HouseAdded Co-Sponsor Rep. Dagmara Avelar
4/07/2026HouseHouse Floor Amendment No. 1 Filed with Clerk by Rep. Barbara Hernandez
4/07/2026HouseHouse Floor Amendment No. 1 Referred to Rules Committee
4/08/2026HouseHouse Floor Amendment No. 1 Rules Refers to Judiciary - Civil Committee
4/08/2026HouseHouse Floor Amendment No. 1 Recommends Be Adopted Judiciary - Civil Committee; 013-007-000
4/09/2026HouseAdded Co-Sponsor Rep. Justin Cochran
4/09/2026HouseAdded Co-Sponsor Rep. Edgar González, Jr.
4/09/2026HouseAdded Co-Sponsor Rep. Aarón M. Ortíz
4/09/2026HouseAdded Co-Sponsor Rep. Anne Stava
4/09/2026HouseAdded Co-Sponsor Rep. Norma Hernandez