Oregon House Bill 3604 advances legal protections for stray cats and humane agencies

The Oregon Senate Committee on Judiciary convened on April 28, 2025, to discuss House Bill 3604 A, a proposed measure aimed at addressing the growing issue of stray and feral cats in the state. The bill seeks to establish a legal defense against theft charges for animal holding agencies that take possession of cats under specific conditions, thereby providing immunity from civil liability.

Representative Tom Anderson, who introduced the bill, emphasized its importance in tackling the feral cat crisis, which has been a significant concern in Marion County. He noted that current laws classify cats as property, which can deter shelters from taking in stray cats due to potential legal repercussions if the cat is later found to be owned. The proposed legislation would allow shelters to operate without fear of liability, provided they adhere to certain requirements, including posting information about the cat online and maintaining it for a designated holding period.

The bill mandates that animal holding agencies must record the identity and contact information of individuals transferring cats, verify the status of the cat as unowned or stray, and provide necessary medical care during the holding period. The holding duration is set at three business days for unlicensed cats and five days for those with identification, with the possibility of extension based on local ordinances.

During the meeting, various stakeholders, including representatives from the Oregon Humane Society, expressed support for the bill. They highlighted the challenges posed by cat overpopulation, exacerbated by limited access to spay and neuter services, which has led to an increase in stray cats. The Humane Society's representative noted that the bill would help streamline the process for shelters to manage stray cats effectively.

The committee also addressed questions regarding the bill's focus on cats, clarifying that Oregon already has existing frameworks for stray dogs, which is why this legislation specifically targets cats.

As the bill moves forward, it represents a collaborative effort among community partners to create a more effective response to the challenges posed by stray and feral cats in Oregon. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential approval from the Senate.