California Acts to Support Pet Owners and Animal Welfare
California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed new legislation aimed at easing the financial burden of pet ownership and improving animal welfare across the state. The new laws address the rising costs of pet care, strengthen protections for pet owners with insurance, and increase access to affordable spay and neuter services.
“Every pet deserves a home – and every home is happier with a pet – but the rising costs of pet care and the growing number of animals in need of adoption present real challenges,” Newsom stated. “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.”
This issue is particularly pressing in the Mother Lode region. Both Calaveras County Animal Services have faced overcrowding, and Tuolumne County Animal Control reported a record number of puppy and kitten litters, leading to euthanasia earlier this month. As a result, officials have implemented new strategies, including the opening of a spay and neuter surgery suite to reduce costs.
The governor’s office provided details on the recently enacted bills:
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SB 1217, authored by Senator Steven Glazer (D-Orinda), enhances consumer protections and requires greater transparency from pet insurers. It mandates clarity regarding coverage and premium changes based on the age or location of the animal. The bill also clarifies exclusions for pre-existing conditions, differentiates wellness programs from insurance, and stipulates that coverage must be issued within two days of receiving a complete application and payment.
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SB 1233, by Senator Scott Wilk (R-Santa Clarita), permits California veterinary medical schools to establish a high-quality, high-volume spay and neuter certification program. This program aims to significantly broaden pet owners’ access to low-cost or free spay and neuter services, an effort that complements AB 1983, which was signed earlier this year.
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AB 1983, introduced by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego), created the Prevention of Animal Homelessness and Cruelty Voluntary Tax Contribution Fund. Residents can voluntarily donate a portion of their tax return to the Prevention Fund, which will then offer grants for low-cost and no-cost spay and neuter programs.
