With unanimous votes in the State Assembly and State Senate last week, the California Legislature sent Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger a bill designed to protect companion animals after their owners’ death.
“Pets are an important part of the American family,” Sen. Leland Yee said in a statement. “SB 685 will make pet trusts enforceable and assure that the wishes of pet owners are respected.”
“Wills and trusts are the means for people to bestow their possessions and savings as they see fit,” Yee said. “Under SB 685, a pet owner will be assured that their pet will be properly cared for after their passing while also ensuring that kin are not burdened with undue pressure.”
The bill will ensure those pets designated within the trust are protected and cared for as the owner intended and are not sent unnecessarily into the shelter system. Funds left over after the animal’s life may be donated, using the trust’s instructions, to animal related charities.
Tom Martin is an estate planning attorney in downtown Long Beach. Call Tom today to schedule your complimentary consultation on how you can protect your pet’s future: (562) 219-3290.
