House Bill 1156, sponsored by State Rep. Sarah Davis (R-West University Place), was heard in the Public Health Committee on March 14 where it was “left pending” in the committee. HB 1156 will force dog owners to remain outside with any tethered dog. The bill still has opportunity to be brought up before the committee for a vote at any time.
In addition to requiring dog owners to remain outside, House Bill 1156 also bans chains, and mandates specific requirements for the lengths of tethers. While the bill attempts to provide exemptions for common agricultural or sporting practices, dog owners must still be present at all times or face a criminal offense.
“Tethers are commonly used by sportsmen and field trailers, and many dog owners use tethers to let pets outside to relieve themselves, or to keep their dogs from leaving the property or running at large,” said Luke Houghton, associate director of state services with the Sportsmen’s Alliance. “Rather than a one-size-fits-all law that criminalizes dog owners, it would be better to judge a tethered dog by its health and overall care provided. House Bill 1156 makes things easier for law enforcement, but will criminalize law-abiding, conscientious dog owners with healthy dogs.”
Take Action Today! Currently House Bill 1156 could be scheduled for a future hearing at any moment. Texas members should contact their state representatives and ask them to vote NO on HB 1156. Texas sportsmen can contact their state representative by using the Sportsmen’s Alliance Legislative Action Center.
About the Sportsmen’s Alliance: The Sportsmen’s Alliance protects and defends America’s wildlife conservation programs and the pursuits – hunting, fishing and trapping – that generate the money to pay for them. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation is responsible for public education, legal defense and research. Its mission is accomplished through several distinct programs coordinated to provide the most complete defense capability possible. Stay connected to Sportsmen’s Alliance: Online, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.