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HB 5410

Crimes: domestic violence; common household pets in certain shelter programs; provide for. Amends secs. 1 & 7 of 1978 PA 389 (MCL 400.1501 & 400.1507).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joey Andrews and 18 co-sponsors

Michigan bill allows domestic violence shelters to house common household pets alongside abuse survivors fleeing dangerous situations, removing a major barrier to seeking safety.

bill electronically reproduced 12/18/2025
#animals:domestic #animals:other #crimevictims:other #crimes:domesticviolence
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Bill Summary · HB 5410

Legislative bill overview

HB 5410 amends Michigan's domestic violence shelter laws to allow common household pets to be included in certain domestic violence shelter programs. The bill modifies the existing 1978 PA 389 statute governing domestic violence services to address barriers that prevent abuse survivors from seeking shelter due to concerns about their animals.

Why is this important

Research consistently shows that pet ownership is a significant factor preventing domestic violence survivors from leaving abusive situations—some studies indicate 48% of abuse survivors delay leaving due to pet safety concerns. By enabling shelters to accommodate pets, the bill removes a critical barrier to safety and may increase the number of survivors who access protective services.

Potential points of contention

  • Shelter resource requirements: Facilities may lack space, funding, and trained staff to safely house and care for diverse pets alongside vulnerable populations, potentially straining already under-resourced shelter systems
  • Liability and safety concerns: Shelters may face increased liability risks related to animal care, potential injuries to residents, or complications from traumatized animals in crisis environments
  • Implementation costs: The bill does not specify funding mechanisms, raising questions about whether shelters must absorb costs or if state/local funding will be allocated to support this expansion
  • Scope ambiguity: "Common household pets" is undefined, creating uncertainty about which animals qualify (dogs, cats only, or including reptiles, birds, etc.)

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

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