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House approves bill letting judges include pets in protective orders for domestic-violence victims
Summary
HB 342 passed after sponsor Rep. Scott Wyatt said including pets in protective orders helps victims leave abusive relationships without fear for animals; the House passed the bill 39–29 with 7 absent and sent it to the Senate.
The Utah House passed House Bill 342 on Feb. 13 to allow judges to include pets in protective orders for victims of domestic violence.
Representative Scott Wyatt, sponsor of the bill, told colleagues abusers sometimes use threats to harm or kill animals as a tactic to control partners and deter them from leaving. "An animal is not an automobile, and it's not an essential personal effect…This bill…adds to the list of personal property that can be ordered — a pet," Wyatt said, explaining that the change would let courts order that a victim may take a family pet or otherwise protect the animal as part of relief.
In questioning, representatives asked whether the current authority to exclude a respondent from a residence already covered pets; Wyatt said pets are not currently treated as essential personal effects and the bill fills that gap so victims can be assured they may take a pet with them or secure court protection for it.
After limited debate, HB 342 passed the House on a 39–29–7 tally and will be transmitted to the Senate for further consideration.
