This bill amends current law regarding loss of consortium to include pets as eligible for damages, expanding the definition of "loss of consortium" to encompass the loss of love, companionship, and support from both a spouse and a pet. Specifically, it introduces new legal language that defines loss of consortium and establishes that individuals can recover damages for the loss or impairment of this right when it involves the death of a pet caused intentionally or recklessly. The bill also stipulates that if the claimant is found to have contributed to the injury, the recoverable damages may be reduced accordingly.

Additionally, the bill allows individuals to bring lawsuits against governmental officials, including law enforcement officers, who intentionally or recklessly cause the death of a pet without legal justification. This provision aims to hold officials accountable for their actions that result in the loss of a pet. The effective date for this act is set for January 1, 2026, and it is projected to have a minimal fiscal impact of less than $10,000 for the fiscal years 2025 through 2028.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 507:8-a