The US House of Representatives has passed the PACT (Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture) Act bill that makes animal abuse a federal felony.
This will allow authorities to go after abusers as they will have federal jurisdiction.
It was Florida congressmen Vern Buchanan and Ted Deutch who introduced the bipartisan act.
“This bill sends a clear message that our society does not accept cruelty against animals,” Deutch said in a statement.
“We’ve received support from so many Americans from across the country and across the political spectrum.”
Deutch added: “I’m deeply thankful for all of the advocates who helped us pass this bill, and I look forward to the Senate’s swift passage and the President’s signature.”
Buchanan said: “The torture of innocent animals is abhorrent and should be punished to the fullest extent of the law.
“Passing the PACT Act sends a strong message that this behavior will not be tolerated. Protecting animals from cruelty is a top priority for me and I will continue to work with Congressman Deutch to get this important bill signed into law.”
2010’s Animal Crush Video Prohibition Act made it illegal to create and distribute animal crushing videos. But acts of animal abuse were not included.
To close this loophole, the PACT Act was passed.
The bill also explains that the PACT ACT will strengthen the 2010 law by making it a federal crime for “any person to intentionally engage in animal crushing if the animals or animal crushing is in, substantially affects, or uses a means or facility of, interstate or foreign commerce.”
Sara Amundson, the president of the Humane Society Legislative Fund, praised the passing of the bill. “Over the course of 30 years in animal protection, I have encountered terrible animal cruelties, but acts of intentional torture are the most disturbing because they demonstrate how some people treat the most vulnerable in our society.
“These malicious acts deserve federal scrutiny and action. Federal prosecutors and law enforcement officials will finally have the tools they need to bring those responsible for cruelty to animals to justice.”
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Replaced!