HARRISBURG, Pa. (KYW Newsradio) — Legislation aimed at giving judges more clarity over pet ownership in divorce proceedings moved out of a Pennsylvania House committee on a party-line vote, despite concerns from some Republicans.
The bill from western Pennsylvania Democrat Anita Kulik would establish a series of factors for judges to consider when determining custody of a pet.
“Unfortunately, in these situations, a pet could be used by one individual as leverage against the other when negotiating division of assets,” she said.
Kulik’s bill would classify pets as companion animals and require courts to consider the pet’s daily needs, who provides social interaction and vet care, and who provides greater ability to financially support the pet.
“I don't think that we need to set a guideline almost like a ‘best interest factors’ for the family pet in these situations. I think courts are currently equipped to handle those matters now,” argued Republican Torren Ecker.
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“I do have concerns that we blur the lines between what is a person that has a unique dignity, and all other things, which are not people,” added Franklin County Republican Paul Schemel.
Chester County Democrat Melissa Shusterman disagrees.
“It can often be used as an excuse to exploit the person … to go to court over and over again, which is costly,” she said.
While Kulilk makes it clear the bill is not trying to put pets on the same level as children, she said judges generally don’t want to deal with pet ownership, so guidelines would be helpful.
“Typically, pets have been looked at as just another piece of property,” she added. “We know that families don't do that anymore.”
While the bill moved out of committee on a party-line vote, several Republicans say they could be swayed if courts do indeed want more direction on the matter.
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