H.B. No. 285 amends Section 42.092 of the Penal Code regarding the prosecution of cruelty to nonlivestock animals. The bill expands the criteria for committing an offense by including actions taken with criminal negligence, in addition to intentional, knowing, or reckless conduct. It also introduces a new subsection (d-1), which establishes a defense to prosecution for alleged criminal negligence if the conduct occurred while the individual was performing their duties as a licensed veterinarian or as an assistant to a veterinarian.

The changes made by this Act will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. Any offenses committed prior to this date will be governed by the law in effect at that time, ensuring that the previous legal standards remain applicable for those cases.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 42.092 (Penal Code 42)
House Committee Report: Penal Code 42.092 (Penal Code 42)
Engrossed: Penal Code 42.092 (Penal Code 42)
Senate Committee Report: Penal Code 42.092 (Penal Code 42)
Enrolled: Penal Code 42.092 (Penal Code 42)