Texas House Bill HB250

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to attorney's fees associated with certain court proceedings for cruelly treated animals; authorizing fees and costs.

Impact

Additionally, HB250 allows courts in municipalities with populations over 700,000 to impose reasonable attorney fees on the owner found guilty of animal cruelty. This change is intended to support municipal and county resources dedicated to animal welfare, particularly in larger urban areas where the costs of handling such cases can be significant. The introduction of these fee structures is aimed at deterring animal cruelty by emphasizing the financial responsibility of offenders while also enhancing the abilities of agencies and organizations that care for abused animals.

Summary

House Bill 250, introduced by Representative Farrar, addresses the issue of attorney's fees associated with court proceedings involving the cruel treatment of animals. The bill proposes amendments to the Health and Safety Code, specifically sections relating to the treatment and care of animals deemed mistreated by their owners. The legislation seeks to ensure that, in case of a court ruling that confirms animal cruelty, the convicted party is liable for all court costs and fees incurred during the proceedings, including those pertaining to investigation, expert testimony, and animal care during impoundment.

Contention

Despite its intent to bolster animal welfare, HB250 has sparked some debate among stakeholders. Supporters argue that the bill will provide necessary resources to animal shelters and increase accountability for offenders, thus improving the overall welfare of animals across Texas. Conversely, some critics fear that imposing additional financial burdens could deter individuals from reporting suspected animal cruelty incidents, as the fear of incurring substantial fees may outweigh the motivation to seek justice for mistreated animals. This concern highlights a broader contention regarding the balance between enforcing animal welfare laws and ensuring that reporting mechanisms remain accessible to the public.