PETITION TARGETS: U.S. House Committee on Agriculture Chair and U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Chair
Animals in puppy mills, roadside zoos, aquariums, and labs are often denied even their most basic needs — deprived of veterinary care, proper shelter, adequate food and water, and forced to live in squalor.
Although the U.S. Department of Agriculture has the authority to penalize facilities that neglect or mistreat animals under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), enforcement is severely lacking.
However, a newly reintroduced bill — the Better Collaboration, Accountability, and Regulatory Enforcement (CARE) for Animals Act — aims to change that by strengthening and expanding the ability of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to take action against those who violate the AWA.
“Far too often, researchers, breeders and dealers who mistreat animals get away with their crimes,” said U.S. Senator John Kennedy, the bill’s cosponsor. “I’m proud to help introduce the Better CARE for Animals Act to make sure law enforcement has the authority to rescue innocent creatures from dangerous environments and punish people who have a hand in the mishandling of animals.”
If passed, H.R. 3112/S. 1538 would equip the DOJ with expanded enforcement tools, including the authority to pursue injunctions, license revocations, financial penalties, and remove animals from neglectful and/or abusive facilities.
It would also give the DOJ prompt access to information on repeat offenders whose violations “seriously or adversely” impact animal health or welfare.
The AWA was created to protect animals, but without strong enforcement, it amounts to little more than lip service — allowing abusers to operate with impunity while animals pay the price.
Sign this petition urging U.S. legislators to support this bill and give the DOJ the ability to protect animals from cruelty and neglect.
