Committee supports House Bill 3,604 for stray cat care and management in Oregon

In a recent meeting of the Oregon Senate Committee on Judiciary, lawmakers discussed House Bill 3,604, aimed at establishing a legal framework for managing stray cats in the state. The bill proposes a defined stray hold period, standards for agencies that take in stray cats, and a process for these agencies to claim ownership of unclaimed cats. Proponents argue that the legislation is necessary to fill a gap in services for stray cats, as many counties lack the resources to manage them effectively.

The bill seeks to protect agencies from civil and criminal liability if they adhere to the outlined procedures, ensuring that they can operate without fear of legal repercussions. This initiative is particularly significant as it aims to provide a structured approach to handling stray cats, which can often lead to overcrowded shelters and increased euthanasia rates. The proposed measures would allow for better care and potential reunification of lost cats with their owners, while also facilitating adoption for those that are unclaimed.

Supporters, including representatives from animal welfare organizations, emphasized the importance of a statewide solution, noting that existing county frameworks for stray dogs do not extend to cats. They highlighted that the bill does not interfere with successful trap-neuter-return programs, which are crucial for controlling feral cat populations.

However, some concerns were raised during the discussion, particularly regarding the potential disruption of existing arrangements in counties that already have their own systems in place for managing stray cats. Critics questioned whether the proposed stray hold period would adequately balance the needs of agencies with the rights of pet owners to reclaim their animals.

In addition to House Bill 3,604, the committee also reviewed House Bill 2,183, which focuses on recognizing prior law enforcement experience for certification as a private security professional. This bill received unanimous support and is expected to move forward without significant fiscal impact.

As the committee continues its work, the discussions surrounding these bills reflect broader concerns about animal welfare and public safety in Oregon. The outcomes of these legislative efforts will likely have lasting implications for how stray animals are managed and the resources allocated to their care.