Senate Bill 568 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 36, Chapter 4, which pertains to domestic relations, by adding a new provision regarding the ownership of pets or companion animals in divorce or separation cases. The new subsection allows the court to determine the ownership or joint ownership of any pet owned by the parties involved, with a focus on the well-being of the animal.

This bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2023, emphasizing the importance of considering the welfare of pets during domestic disputes. The inclusion of this provision reflects a growing recognition of the emotional and psychological significance of companion animals in people's lives.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 36-4-121