Legislative Advancement Pioneering Animal Rights
This week, the Congress of Mexico City approved a reform to the local Civil Code that establishes shared custody of pets in divorce proceedings. The modification aims to end conflicts and pressures that arise during marriage dissolution when pets are involved, recognizing these creatures as family members.
The reform, approved by adding fraction VII to article 267 of the Civil Code for the Federal District, was championed by diputada Luisa Fernanda Ledesma Alpízar (MC). This legislative measure seeks to ensure the protection and well-being of animals, now formally acknowledged as sentient beings in the legal framework of divorce.
Mexico City thus becomes the first entity in the country to formalize a “plan of care” for pets. During the dictamen’s justification, diputado Royfid Torres González (MC) highlighted that “we have shared life with other beings with whom we have established deep bonds beyond mere coexistence.” He emphasized that, for many families, pets are an additional member, especially in an era where young couples opt not to have children and choose pets as part of their family nucleus.
Pets Used to Negotiate Divorce Agreements
Diputado Torres González pointed out that companion animals have unfortunately been used as a measure of pressure to negotiate divorce agreements. The new legislation aims to recognize the emotional bond we have with pets and ensure their well-being is a legal priority.
The approved document specifies that the divorce agreement may include a plan of care to ensure the protection and well-being of pets. Factors considered when determining who will retain custody include:
- Each party’s ability to provide a safe and suitable environment.
- The availability of time and economic resources for pet care.
Diputada Ledesma Alpízar celebrated the achievement, emphasizing that Mexico City now offers a legal framework protecting animals in these proceedings. She shared on social media, “With this reform to the Civil Code, the guardianship and custody of sentient beings in divorce cases are recognized, always prioritizing their well-being and protection.”
Key Questions and Answers
- What does the new legislation mean for pet owners in Mexico City? The reform ensures that pets’ well-being is prioritized in divorce proceedings, allowing for a shared custody plan that considers each party’s ability to provide a safe environment and their capacity for pet care.
- Who proposed this change? The reform was championed by diputada Luisa Fernanda Ledesma Alpízar (MC) and was approved by the Congress of Mexico City.
- Why is this important? This legislative measure acknowledges pets as sentient beings and family members, aiming to end conflicts and pressures that arise during marriage dissolution when pets are involved.
- What factors will be considered when determining pet custody? Factors include each party’s ability to provide a safe environment and their availability of time and resources for pet care.
