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Digest
HB 471 amends Chapter 823 of the Health and Safety Code to expand reporting requirements for animal shelters and releasing agencies, defining "releasing agency" and mandating detailed records on animal intake and disposition. These records must include data on the total number of animals, categorized by species and age, reasons for custody, monthly population counts, and outcomes such as adoption, euthanasia, or transfer. Shelters and agencies must retain records for at least three years and make them publicly accessible through their website or by providing physical copies upon request. The changes apply to animals placed in or disposed of by shelters or agencies on or after September 1, 2025.
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