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HB 5264

AN ACT CONCERNING SERVICE ANIMALS IN INSURANCE UNDERWRITING, THE APPOINTMENT OF AN ADVOCATE IN PROCEEDINGS CONCERNING THE WELFARE OR CUSTODY OF COMPANION ANIMALS, ASSAULT OF A DOMESTIC ANIMAL AND ESTABLISHING AN ANIMAL ABUSE TASK FORCE.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Hector Arzeno and 7 co-sponsors

Connecticut bill prohibits insurance discrimination against service/therapy animals, mandates legal advocates for animals in custody disputes, increases animal assault penalties, and establishes animal abuse task force.

FAV. CHG. OF REF., SEN. TO COMM. ON Judiciary
#advocates #agriculture #departmentof #assaultandbattery #blindandvisuallyimpairedpersons #crueltytoanimals #elderlypersons #felonies #homeowners'insurance #intellectualdisabilities #personswith #landlordandtenant #misdemeanors #pets #pregnancy #reports #serviceanimals #taskforces
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Bill Summary · HB 5264

Legislative bill overview

HB 5264 is a multi-faceted animal welfare bill that addresses insurance discrimination against service and therapy animals, establishes legal representation for animals in custody cases, increases penalties for domestic animal assault, and creates a task force to investigate animal abuse. The bill bundles four distinct policy areas into a single comprehensive measure.

Why is this important

Insurance discrimination based on animal breed or type can prevent people—particularly those with disabilities relying on service animals—from obtaining homeowners or renters coverage. Simultaneously, the bill attempts to strengthen protections for animals by giving them formal representation in legal proceedings and creating dedicated resources for investigating abuse cases, reflecting evolving attitudes about animal rights and welfare.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance industry concerns: Insurers may argue that certain animals present measurable risk factors and that restricting underwriting criteria limits their ability to assess claims accurately and price policies fairly
  • Animal advocacy costs: Appointing advocates in every animal custody case could create significant administrative burden on courts and generate ongoing public expense
  • Definition ambiguities: The bill likely requires clear definitions of "service animals" versus "therapy animals" versus "companion animals"—categories that can overlap and cause implementation challenges
  • Task force scope and funding: The effectiveness of an animal abuse task force depends heavily on dedicated funding and staffing, which may not be specified

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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