Providing equal protections for children and pets.

SB 6306, the Washington State Children and Pets Safety Parity Act, updates animal welfare laws to require that when an animal is in immediate danger, law enforcement can enter a property without a warrant to provide emergency care or seize the animal. It mandates that if a child is present during such an animal seizure, animal control officers must notify law enforcement, triggering child protection protocols under existing laws (RCW 26.44.050). The bill defines "minimum care" for animals to include adequate food, water, shelter, veterinary care, and space, aligning these standards with child safety requirements. Owners of seized animals must post a bond within 14 days to cover 30 days of care costs and are given 14 days to request a court hearing for the animal's return.