Mexico Passes Landmark Animal Welfare Law

Ciudad de México—Mexico has taken a significant step towards establishing its first national Animal welfare framework following the unanimous approval of the General Law on Animal Wellbeing, Care and Protection by the Senate. The legislation recognizes animals as sentient beings and establishes national standards for their care and protection, aligning with a 2024 constitutional reform that prohibited animal cruelty and empowered the Congress to legislate nationally on the matter.

Key Provisions of the New Law

The law will establish common animal welfare criteria and define responsibilities for federal, state, and municipal authorities. Humane World Mexico celebrates the text, which includes many of the protections the organization has advocated for, reflecting concerns voiced by the Mexican population.

Legislative Process Continues

The organization contributed to the legislative discussion through consultations in both the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate, sharing scientific evidence and technical recommendations with legislators, authorities, and civil society organizations. Anton Aguilar, Executive Director of HWA Mexico, stated that today’s committee vote represents a crucial step towards translating the constitutional reform’s promise into tangible protections for animals. The initiative includes recognition of animals as sentient beings, enhanced protections against cruelty, the inclusion of animals in disaster preparedness, and humane management of stray animal populations.

Further Strengthening

Aguilar noted that the text can be further strengthened and that Mexico can aspire to even more ambitious protections. The Senate is now urged to bring the initiative to the full Senate for a favorable vote, allowing the process to continue in the Chamber of Deputies.