Texas Animal Control Officers (ACO) are now considered first responders alongside police officers, firefighters, and other emergency personnel and fall under the state’s “Move Over/Slow Down” law.
HB 3049, HB 2041, and SB 305 concerning ACOs and their vehicles were all enacted to amend government code and became effective Sept. 1.
HB 2041 (Ken King) and its companion bill SB 305 (Charles Perry) adds animal control vehicles to the list of protected in Texas and creates a criminal offense for drivers who unlawfully pass stationary vehicles operated by ACOs or local authority employees when they are using visual signals on the highway, amending Section 545.157 of the Texas Transportation Code to add these vehicles to the list covered by the ”Move Over’ law.
The change in designation was prompted, in part, by the tragic 2022 accident in Levelland where Senior Animal Control Officer Crystal Goforth, 38, and her partner, Jon Corder, 41, were responding to an animal-related call on a highway in Levelland when their ACO vehicle was struck by a pickup truck while parked on the shoulder. Both tragically died from the resulting crash.
Levelland ACO Officer Taylor Perez is glad to see the law change.
“After what happened to my fellow officers, Crystal Goforth and Jon Conder, I am glad to see the changes in the law that are being made for, not just for safety, but also recognizing that ACO officers are there to serve and protect community and animals, often in hazardous situations.”
The laws target improving safety for officers responding to calls, rescuing animals, and clearing hazards from roads.
The most immediate impact is that drivers are now required to slow down or move over a lane when passing stopped animal control vehicles with flashing lights. Additionally, the laws acknowledge that animal control officers already perform duties similar to other first responders, including responding to emergencies, providing medical assistance to animals, and addressing public safety concerns like animal bites and rabies control.
This action was supported by organizations like the Texas Animal Control Association (TACA) and the Texas Humane Legislation Network to provide ACOs with the recognition, higher wages, and mental health support that other first responders receive for their vital work. ACOs and field officers often work in hazardous roadside conditions to remove animals or animal carcasses from highways, putting themselves at risk every day. With the new laws, they now have an added layer of protection. traffic. “We’re proud to have been part of this effort and are grateful to see these dedicated professionals receive the protection they deserve.