Summary Sheet- RFCA SUMMARY

CITY OF TEMPE
Meeting Date: 6/11/2026  
REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION
Agenda Item: 8B3
ACTION:  PUBLIC HEARING ITEM Introduce and hold the first public hearing to adopt an ordinance 
relating to public health and safety by amending the Tempe City Code, Chapter 6, Article I relating to 
Animals in General, including Sections 6-21 and 6-34, and Article II, Division 2 relating to Animal 
Impoundment, including Sections 6-49 through 6-50. The second and final public hearing is scheduled 
for June 25, 2026. (Ordinance No. O2026.34)
FISCAL IMPACT:  No impact on City funds.
RECOMMENDATION:  Adopt Ordinance No. O2026.34.
 
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:  The initiative to update the City’s Animal Ordinance was 
developed through the collaborative efforts of the Animal Welfare and Cruelty Council Subcommittee, in 
partnership with Community Health and Human Services, Government Relations, the Tempe Police 
Department, and community partners.
During meetings held on September 30, 2025, January 23, 2026, March 6, 2026, and June 2, 2026, the 
subcommittee reviewed and discussed proposed ordinance updates to align with Senate Bill 1658, 
known as “Jerry’s Law.” The legislation expands the definition of animal cruelty, clarifies provisions 
related to cruel neglect, and revises the definition of a domestic animal.
The Council Subcommittee has completed its review and development of proposed amendments to 
Chapter 6 of the City Code to strengthen animal welfare protections. At the June 2 Council 
Subcommittee of the Committee of the Whole meeting, the subcommittee received consensus to move 
forward with adoption of the ordinance revisions.
ATTACHMENTS:    
1. ORDINANCE O2026.34; AMENDING TCC CHAPTER CHAPTER 6 ANIMAL WELFARE .DRAFT 
6.1.26.DOCX
STAFF CONTACT(S):  Vanessa Lopez, Council Assistant, (480) 350-8597; Tanya Chavez, Mayor 
and Council Relations Director, (480) 858-2215
Department Director:  Tanya Chavez, Mayor and Council Relations Director  
Legal review by:  Eric Anderson, City Attorney
Prepared by:  Vanessa Lopez, Council Assistant