SB 2014 Summary

• Adds "companion animal" definition to domestic abuse law, defining it as any animal kept inside a residential dwelling or any dog or cat regardless of location, excluding livestock and wild animals.

• Authorizes courts to include protections for companion animals in final domestic abuse protection orders by directing respondents to refrain from abusing any companion animal.

• Adds "harming" to the list of prohibited actions regarding mutually owned or leased property in temporary protection orders issued by municipal and justice courts.

• Grants courts authority to award possession of personal property to petitioners in final protection orders, in addition to residence and household possession.

• Effective date: July 1, 2019.