Governor Gavin Newsom has signed new legislation aimed at alleviating the financial burden of pet ownership and addressing the issue of overcrowding in California animal shelters. The new laws seek to provide greater consumer protections for pet owners and expand access to affordable spay and neuter services.
“Every pet deserves a home – and every home is happier with a pet,” Newsom stated. “But the rising costs of pet care and the growing number of animals in need of adoption present real challenges. California is addressing both issues: reforming the pet insurance industry and supporting efforts to meet the high demand for accessible spay and neuter services to address overcrowding in shelters.”
The legislation comes as animal shelters across the state, including those in the Mother Lode, struggle with overcapacity. Tuolumne County Animals Control recently reported a record number of puppy and kitten litters, leading to euthanasia, as previously reported by this outlet. Officials have also implemented new strategies to reduce shelter populations, such as opening a spay and neuter surgery suite, according to previous reports.
Newsom emphasized that the new bills build upon the administration’s ongoing efforts to enhance animal welfare. His office provided the following details on the new legislation:
- SB 1217, authored by Senator Steven Glazer (D-Orinda), strengthens consumer protections and mandates greater transparency from pet insurers. It requires clear disclosure of coverage or premium changes based on a pet’s age or location. The bill also increases clarity in policies regarding pre-existing conditions, differentiates wellness programs from insurance, and mandates that coverage be issued within two days of a complete application and payment.
- SB 1233, introduced by Senator Scott Wilk (R-Santa Clarita), authorizes California veterinary medical schools to develop a high-quality, high-volume spay and neuter certification program. This initiative is expected to significantly increase pet owners’ access to low-cost or no-cost spay and neuter services.
These efforts align with AB 1983, introduced by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego), which was enacted earlier this year. This established the Prevention of Animal Homelessness and Cruelty Voluntary Tax Contribution Fund, enabling Californians to voluntarily donate a portion of their tax returns to support low-cost and no-cost spay and neuter services via grants. The combined legislation underscores California’s commitment to improving animal welfare and making pet ownership more accessible.
