Northeast

Pennsylvania bill would recognize pets as family members in divorce cases

Published

2 months ago

December 23, 2025

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Pennsylvania bill would recognize pets as family members in divorce cases

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A Pennsylvania bill would recognize pets as family members, elevating their status in situations such as divorce.

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives recently passed House Bill 97, which would elevate the legal status of pets as “living beings that are generally regarded as cherished family members that offer their owners companionship, security and assistance,” if signed into law.

The bill would create an official definition of a companion animal, elevating its status in divorce proceedings.

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A sad little girl is hugging a dog while her parents are arguing in the background. (Getty Images)

“Companion animals occupy a special category of personal property which does not include inanimate personal property. Therefore, it is the policy of the Commonwealth that special consideration be extended to companion animals when the division of personal property is planned or determined,” the legislation continues.

The bill outlines new rules for shared schedules, custody arrangements and the division of costs associated with the pet.

It also directs judges to consider factors similar to child custody cases, such as who provides daily care for the pet, who takes the pet to the vet and who has greater financial ability to care for the pet.

The legislation was sponsored by state Rep. Anita Astorino Kulik, D-Pa., who represents Pennsylvania’s 45th District.

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The bill directs judges to consider factors similar to child custody situations, such as who provides daily care for the pet, who takes the pet to the vet, who has greater financial ability to care for the pet and so forth. (iStock)

In a September Facebook post, Kulik wrote, “For many years, I practiced Family Law. During that time, I realized that one of the main points of contention for divorcing couples was custody of their pets. For many of us, our furry friends are not merely ‘pets’ — they are an important part of our family.”

Kulik added, “I am pleased that my bill, House Bill 97, was overwhelmingly approved by the House of Representatives, and I thank those of my colleagues that voted in favor of this legislation! I also want to thank the advocacy groups that supported this measure, for their efforts.”

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The bill proposes new rules for shared schedules, custody arrangements and the division of costs associated with the pet. (iStock)

The bill is currently under consideration in the Pennsylvania Senate.

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State Rep. Anita Astorino Kulik did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.

Rachel del Guidice is a reporter for Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to rachel.delguidice@fox.com.

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Boston, MA

‘We’re honoring Black excellence’: Mass. celebrates leaders of color

Published

19 minutes ago

February 28, 2026

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‘We’re honoring Black excellence’: Mass. celebrates leaders of color

Applause and music echoed through the Hall of Flags at the Massachusetts State House Friday as lawmakers and community leaders gathered for the Black Excellence on the Hill and the Latino Excellence Awards.

The ceremony celebrates Black and brown residents committed to advancing economic equity.

“We’re honoring Black excellence,” said state Rep. Chris Worrell. “When we look at today, this is what it should look like. This is our house. Black people built this house, literally and figuratively.”

Honorees ranged from attorneys to former professional athletes. Nicole M. Bluefort of the Law Offices of Nicole Bluefort said she plans to use her platform to uplift others.

“I will use my advocacy skills as an attorney to move people forward,” she said.

Former NBA player Wayne Seldan Jr. talked about his journey from McDonald’s All American to a full scholarship at Kansas and a professional career.

“You always want to keep striving for continued betterment and for stuff to grow,” he said. “I don’t think there should be mountaintops. I think we should always be striving to keep building.”

The keynote address was delivered by Michelle Brown, mother of Jaylen Brown, who spoke about raising two children as a single mother and the importance of faith, discipline and education.

“There are no shortcuts. There are no guarantees,” she said. “There was faith, there was discipline, and there was a deep belief that education created mobility.”

Speakers emphasized that mobility is strengthened when communities work together for a common good. Bluefort highlighted the importance of mentorship and shared opportunity, while state Rep. Sally Kerans encouraged attendees to stand together across racial lines.

“In this moment, stand with others. Speak up. Don’t be afraid to say ‘That’s not normal.’ Be allies. Be supportive,” Kerans said.

Organizers said the ceremony was not only about recognition, but also about sustaining progress — encouraging leaders and residents alike to continue building toward a more equitable future.

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