Congress Approves Bill with Key Animal Welfare Provisions

Washington, D.C. – The recently passed appropriations bill and accompanying coronavirus relief package for fiscal year 2021 include significant provisions benefiting animals, according to a statement released by advocates. The legislation addresses issues ranging from horse racing safety to wildlife conservation and disease prevention.

Key Animal Welfare Measures Included

The bill contains the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (S. 4547/H.R. 1754), championed by senators and representatives, aimed at curbing doping and unsafe track conditions that contribute to equine fatalities. It also renews a provision preventing the reopening of domestic horse slaughter plants in the United States.

Wild Horse Management and Horse Protection

The package allocates over $14 million to the Bureau of Land Management for non-lethal wild horse and burro management, utilizing PZP fertility control. Furthermore, it doubles USDA funding for enforcing the Horse Protection Act to combat cruel “soring” practices on Tennessee walking horses and related breeds, and mandates an Inspector General audit of the HPA enforcement program.

Wildlife Conservation and Disease Prevention

The bill increases investment in Department of Interior law enforcement and wildlife conservation programs, focusing on combating wildlife trafficking and protecting endangered species. It also includes a study on the impact of wildlife markets on disease emergence and increased funding for global health security programs to prevent zoonotic diseases.

Trophy Hunting Regulations

Finally, the legislation requires the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to provide Congress with a briefing on its policy regarding the import of sport-hunted trophies of species like lions and elephants, ensuring these imports don’t negatively impact their survival.