Committee recommends raising bond for seized animals from $25 to $500

The Arizona House Committee on Land, Agriculture and Rural Affairs voted to return Senate Bill 1033 with a do-pass recommendation after debating whether to raise the bond owners must post to reclaim animals seized for cruelty.

Senate Bill 1033 would increase the per-animal bond from $25 to $500 to cover the cost of care and boarding for animals seized by law enforcement pending the outcome of a cruelty case. The committee voted to advance the bill; members recorded a final tally of 5 ayes, 2 nays, 1 present and 1 absent.

The increase is intended to match typical shelter costs for a mandatory 10-day hold. “This bill is very simple. It changes the bond amount to a consistent amount of $500 across the entire state of Arizona,” said Tracy Miller, director of field operations at the Arizona Humane Society. Miller told the committee the average cost of care is about $50 per day and that the $500 bond would offset the typical 10-day hold.

A sponsor who spoke in favor described the current $25 bond as “nowhere near covering the cost of the medical care” incurred when animals are seized and said the change would ensure owners, when found responsible, cover the cost of care. The sponsor also noted that if an owner is found not guilty the bond would be returned in full.

Several members expressed concern about the effect on low-income owners. Representative Sandoval said she understood the bill’s intent to relieve shelters but worried that some owners “may not have the $500 amount to pay to get their pet back.” She said she planned to work with the sponsor on an amendment to exempt people who cannot afford the fee. Representative Cashel also said the jump from $25 to $500 was significant and indicated a desire to discuss alternatives with the sponsor.

Procedurally, the vice chair moved the bill and the secretary called the roll. Known recorded votes during the roll call included Representative Biasucci (aye), Representative Griffin (aye), Representative Pashlikai (nay), Representative Pena (aye), Representative Stahl Hamilton (aye) and Chairman Diaz (aye); some members recorded “pass” during the initial roll call. Committee staff (Blanca) presented the bill summary to members before testimony.

The bill will proceed from committee with the do-pass recommendation. Members who flagged affordability concerns said they intend to seek an amendment to provide relief for owners with demonstrated financial hardship.