 |
|
4/7/2026
|
House passes Rep. Lombardi’s bill that protects pets in domestic abuse situations
|
STATE HOUSE – The House today passed legislation introduced by Rep. John J. Lombardi that would protect household pets in domestic abuse situations that are being heard by the Family Court.
“We know that pets can often be used in nefarious ways, or purposely hurt, during domestic abuse incidents. This legislation will allow the Family Court to protect both the health and safety of domestic abuse victims, as well as their beloved household pets. Defenseless animals shouldn’t be used as pawns when domestic abuse is occurring in the home, and this legislation will prevent that,” said Representative Lombardi (D-Dist. 8, Providence).
The legislation (2026-H 7133A) would permit the Family Court to award possession of household pets to the plaintiff in a domestic abuse complaint, including the enforcement remedy of a restraining order or other injunctive relief.
The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.
For more information, contact:
Andrew Caruolo, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-6124
|
|