San Antonio lawmakers push for stricter dangerous dog laws

AUSTIN, Texas – In response to a series of tragic dog attacks, San Antonio lawmakers are renewing their efforts to pass dangerous dog legislation in the 89th legislative session.

The push comes after several high-profile incidents, including the death of 1-year-old Jiriyah Johnson in October and the fatal mauling of Ramon Najera in 2023.

Governor Greg Abbott previously vetoed the Ramon Najera Act, arguing that existing state penalties for irresponsible dog owners were sufficient. However, local legislators are determined to revisit the issue, citing ongoing public safety concerns.

Here are the bills we're watching this session:

Representative Liz Campos has refiled the Ramon Najera Act, advocating for harsher penalties following dog attacks and allowing anonymous affidavits to encourage more investigations.

“The dangerous dog issue is just not in San Antonio, it's throughout Texas,” Campos said.

Senator Jose Menendez, who will carry the bill in the Senate, emphasized the need for responsible pet ownership.

“We are trying to institute laws that send the message that you really need to be cautious with your dog,” Menendez said.

Representative Barbara Gervin Hawkins has also introduced a bill to empower municipal animal control agencies to operate beyond their usual territories if formally requested by residents.

“We've gotta do stronger regulations related to dealing with these dangerous dogs. We've gotta hold people accountable, and that's a fact,” Gervin Hawkins said.

Representative John Lujan says this cause became more personal to him after meeting with Jiriyah Johnson's parents.

“Before I even decide on legislation, I'm gonna run it by them because I want them to know what we're doing and see what we're doing,” Lujan said.

Rep. Campos has also filed a bill to create a statewide dangerous dog registry.

San Antonio launched its dangerous dog registry about a year ago, shortly after the News 4 I-Team created a similar resource.

For months, the I-Team fought for transparency, ensuring residents could access information about dogs with violent histories.

“People need to know who their neighbors are,” Campos said. “It’s just a matter of putting it out there, making sure the messaging is appropriate, and letting people know that these registries do exist.”

The San Antonio delegation hopes their unified front and continued evidence of the problem will persuade lawmakers and Governor Abbott to support the proposed measures.

The bills must pass through committees and be scheduled for votes on the House and Senate floors before reaching the governor's desk for approval.

This story will be updated as the legislation moves through the House and Senate.