TX SB2438

Removes the requirement that online responsible pet owner courses for defendants convicted of animal-related offenses be approved and certified by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation

Establishes that online responsible pet owner courses must be at least two hours in duration

Specifies required course content including federal and state animal protection laws (animal cruelty, dogfighting, attacks on assistance animals), responsible animal care (spaying, neutering, tethering, health and welfare), animal bite prevention, and dog and cat breeder regulations

Changes requirement from "attend" to "complete" for municipal animal shelter-sponsored courses, and eliminates TDLR's administrative oversight role including course certification, fee collection, rulemaking, monitoring, and enforcement

Applies to defendants placed on community supervision on or after September 1, 2025, regardless of when the underlying offense was committed