In 2011, THLN was instrumental in the passage of HB 963, which allows government authorities to seize cruelly treated animals and remove them from abusive situations. A survey among four leading animal rescue organizations in Texas found that to date more than 20,000 animals were removed from inhumane conditions where they were suffering from cruel treatment and profound neglect due to this law. The Civil Seizure Law provides one common set of rules for appeals from all courts hearing cases involving the seizure and disposition of animals and restitution of the costs incurred by the government agency or non-profit organization in taking care of the animals during the litigation process. It also expedites the appeal process so that the animals are not held in limbo for extended periods of time. Thousands more animals will be rescued by animal welfare organizations as a result of this law.
About the Legislation
