BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center	S.B. 1568
	By: Zaffirini
	Transportation
	4/17/2025
	As Filed

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

Companion animal overpopulation is a public health issue in Texas due to warm weather, lack of education on responsible pet ownership, and veterinarian shortages. As a result, many animals roam the streets, suffer injuries, or are euthanized in shelters that lack space and resources. Spay and neuter programs help control the population and reduce disease spread. 

Current law funds low-cost spay and neuter services through a grant program supported by sales of an "animal friendly" specialty license plate. This plate, however, does not clearly indicate that proceeds fund spay and neuter efforts, leading to decreased sales and an unstable funding stream. S.B. 1568 would direct the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) to expand the selection of license plates and collaborate with the Texas Humane Legislation Network on all designs to ensure they reflect their intended purpose. These changes would increase public awareness, boost participation, and raise funds for sterilization programs-helping to control animal overpopulation, reduce euthanasia rates, and address related public health concerns. 

As proposed, S.B. 1568 amends current law relating to the issuance of Animal Friendly specialty license plates.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Section 504.605(a), Transportation Code, as follows:

(a) Requires the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) to issue specialty license plates including the words "Animal Friendly" and to issue other specialty license plates designed to benefit animal welfare and spay-neuter programs in Texas. Requires TxDMV to design the license plates in consultation with the Texas Humane Legislation Network. Makes a nonsubstantive change.

SECTION 2. Effective date: September 1, 2025.