Pet Animal Ownership In Housing (Colorado)

Colorado’s housing market is among the nation’s most expensive after two years of pandemic-induced growth. As a result, too many families have been forced to choose between their companion animals and their housing.

The Pet Animal Ownership in Housing bill, H.B. 1068, contains several provisions to increase protections for both companion animals and their families. As amended by the House Committee on Transportation, Housing & Local Government committee, the bill includes provisions to:

• Prohibit insurance companies from discriminating against homeowners based on a dog’s breed;
• Limit the amount a tenant can be required to pay as a security deposit and as “pet rent” for companion animals;
• Exclude companion animals from the categories of a tenant’s personal property that a lien may be placed on for unpaid board, lodging, or rent; and
• Ensure any animal left behind in the event of an eviction is cared for by a local animal shelter or rescue and that information about the animal’s location is shared with their family.

The Animal Legal Defense Fund strongly supports H.B. 1068, which was introduced by Representative Alex Valdez (D-5) and Senator Faith Winter (D-25). An amended version of the bill was passed out of the House Committee on Transportation, Housing & Local Government, after a public hearing on February 22, 2023. The bill passed in House on March 13, 2023, and is now before the Senate Committee on Local Government & Housing.

If you live in Colorado, please send a message to your state senator asking them to support this bill.

To find out more about Colorado legislation, visit aldf.org/colorado.