H.B. No. 1675, also known as Mona's Law, introduces provisions for the interment of cremated animal remains alongside human remains in perpetual care cemeteries. The bill amends the Health and Safety Code by adding Section 712.010, which defines key terms such as "pet," "pet remains," and outlines the conditions under which a cemetery may allow the burial of a deceased individual's pet remains with their own. Specifically, it permits the burial of pet remains in the individual's casket or placement beside the individual's cremated remains in a columbarium, as well as the inclusion of pet information on the individual's memorial. Importantly, the bill prohibits the euthanization of pets for the purpose of interment with a deceased individual.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 11.17 of the Tax Code to expand the eligibility for ad valorem tax exemptions for cemeteries. The revised language allows for property used for both human and pet burials to qualify for tax exemption, replacing the previous requirement that property be used exclusively for human burial. This change aims to recognize the growing practice of interring pet remains alongside their owners, thereby providing a tax benefit to cemeteries that accommodate such arrangements. The Act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: ()
House Committee Report: ()
Engrossed: Tax Code 11.17 (Tax Code 11)