Loading chat...

TX HB349

Bill

Status

Engrossed

5/1/2025

Primary Sponsor

Maria Flores

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

89th Legislature Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Extends existing civil liability immunity to persons who forcibly enter a motor vehicle to remove a domestic animal (dogs, cats, or other household pets) in addition to vulnerable individuals (children under 7 or those unable to protect themselves)

  • Requires rescuers to meet specific conditions for immunity: determine the vehicle is locked or the individual/animal cannot exit without help, have good faith belief entry is necessary to prevent imminent harm, notify law enforcement or call 911 first, use only necessary force, and remain with the individual/animal until first responders arrive

  • Removes civil liability immunity if law enforcement personnel advises the person not to enter the vehicle after being contacted

  • Excludes livestock animals from the definition of "domestic animal" eligible for rescue under this protection

  • Applies only to causes of action accruing on or after September 1, 2025

Legislative Description

Relating to civil liability for removing certain individuals or animals from a motor vehicle.

Civil Remedies & Liabilities

Last Action

Referred to State Affairs

5/5/2025

Committee Referrals

State Affairs5/5/2025
Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence2/28/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available