Press Items: Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa — District 20

Austin, TX — The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) today announced the recipients of grant funding under the newly established Texas Spay and Neuter Program. The program, created through Senate Bill 1 (General Appropriations Act, 89th Legislature, Regular Session), appropriates $13 million over the 2026-27 biennium via Rider 32 to launch a pilot program focused on the sterilization of dogs and cats across the state.

DSHS received 119 applications and selected 38 applicants to conduct spay and neuter services, expanding access to affordable pet sterilization in communities across Texas. Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, Vice Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, a supporter of the funding for this program, highlighted the need for these services in South Texas communities.

Senator Hinojosa stated, “Many communities in South Texas are struggling with a growing stray dog and cat population. We are fortunate to have dedicated organizations and families who rescue and shelter abandoned animals, but their capacity has limits. This $13 million investment in low-cost spay and neuter services is an effective solution to help us address this problem.” He added, “I commend the entities in South Texas that applied for these grants. They are on the front lines of this issue every day, and this funding will give them the tools to make a positive difference for the animals and our communities.”

The organizations below have been selected to serve the following counties.

• Hidalgo County: People Assisting Animal Control, Humane Heroes, Palm Valley Animal Society, and Paws Fur Help, Inc.
• Nueces County: People Assisting Animal Control and Operation Kindness
• Jim Wells County: People Assisting Animal Control

The Legislature has required DSHS to provide a report on program outcomes. The report must include: the number of animals treated and their location; health outcomes, including disease prevention and control efforts; a budget report detailing the expenditure of allocated funds; and, strategies for program expansion and improvement.

Senator Hinojosa expressed his commitment to the program’s long-term success. He said, “The reporting requirements will help us measure what’s working and build on our progress. I look forward to continue supporting this program, and I am already working on legislation that would give counties the authority to fund spay and neuter services. Working together—cities, counties, and state—we can reduce our stray dog and cat population.”

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