This bill proposes to amend Arizona Revised Statutes by adding a new section, 25-332, which addresses the possession and care of companion animals in the context of marriage dissolution. Under the new law, parties involved in a dissolution of marriage may create an enforceable agreement regarding the care and possession of a companion animal, detailing the time each party may have the animal and their respective financial responsibilities. The court is required to consider various factors, such as the acquisition of the animal, its daily needs, and the parties' abilities to provide care, when issuing an order regarding the animal's custody.

Additionally, the bill establishes a rebuttable presumption that custody of a companion animal should be awarded to a party if the animal serves as a service animal for that party or for a minor in their custody. The bill also clarifies definitions related to "companion animal" and "service animal," ensuring that the terms are consistent with existing statutes. Overall, this legislation aims to provide clear guidelines for the treatment of companion animals during divorce proceedings, reflecting their importance in the lives of the parties involved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 25-332