Senate hears 'Ramon Najera' bill to let anonymous witnesses trigger dangerous-dog investigations
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Summary
Senate Bill 155 would allow animal-control authorities to investigate and document dog behavior without requiring public affidavits that can expose witnesses; the measure was described as bracketed for San Antonio but sponsors said other cities could be included.
Senator Menendez introduced a committee substitute to Senate Bill 155, the Ramon Najera Act, intended to strengthen responses to dangerous-dog incidents after a series of attacks in San Antonio, including a fatal mauling described in sponsor testimony.
Under the substitute, animal-control authorities could investigate incidents by observing and documenting a dog’s behavior and — after determining the dog dangerous — notify the owner in writing. The substitute also would make a witness’s identifying information confidential and exempt from public disclosure except for enforcement purposes.
Brad Davenport, assistant director for Animal Care Services in San Antonio, told the committee the city receives roughly 2,000 dog-bite reports annually and about 40 dangerous-dog affidavits monthly. He said the change would let authorities act when victims or witnesses fear retribution and therefore refuse to file sworn statements.
Supporters argued anonymous reporting protections would encourage more reports and allow authorities to pursue dangerous animals before more serious injuries occur. The committee closed testimony and left the bill pending.