TX HB285

Expands the mental states for animal cruelty offenses under Section 42.092 of the Texas Penal Code to include "criminal negligence" in addition to the existing standards of intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly committing prohibited acts

Prohibited acts include torturing animals, cruel killing, causing serious bodily injury, poisoning, failing to provide food/water/care/shelter, abandonment, cruel transport or confinement, causing animal fights (non-dogs), and using live animals as lures in dog racing

Creates a legal defense for criminal negligence charges when the conduct occurred during the actual discharge of duties by a licensed veterinarian or a person assisting the veterinarian

Applies only to offenses committed on or after September 1, 2025; prior offenses remain governed by former law

Passed the House 125-5 on May 2, 2025, and the Senate 31-0 on May 23, 2025