Today marks a significant milestone in the fight against animal cruelty as a new law is set to transform how such offenses are treated in the U.S. The Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture (PACT) Act is poised to make animal cruelty a federal felony, with offenders facing penalties of up to seven years in prison—an important step forward in a realm that, until now, has been largely governed by state laws.
Incredibly, as of 2019, many acts of animal cruelty were not classified as federal crimes. The Animal Welfare Act of 1966 has been the primary federal legislation concerning animal treatment, but it has been limited in scope. However, the PACT Act aims to change that. Once signed into law by President Trump, this groundbreaking legislation will criminalize specific acts of cruelty toward animals.
Support from Lawmakers
Senator Jamie Roberts from Texas expressed the importance of this legislation, stating, “This is a major win for our communities and for animal welfare. Studies indicate that individuals who harm animals often escalate to violence against people. Strong federal laws addressing animal cruelty are essential.” The bill was initially introduced by Representatives Lucy Cartwright and Mark Bennett and garnered unanimous support in the Senate after passing in the House.
The PACT Act builds upon the 2010 Animal Crush Video Prohibition Act, which banned the creation and distribution of videos depicting animal crushing. The new law expands this by criminalizing a range of violent actions against animals, including burning, drowning, and impalement, especially if these actions involve interstate commerce.
Community Impact
As Rep. Cartwright noted, “This legislation sends a powerful message that our society will not tolerate cruelty to animals. We have received tremendous backing from citizens across the nation, and I’m grateful for everyone who has contributed to making this a reality.” Bennett added, “The brutal treatment of innocent animals is unacceptable and deserves the strongest legal repercussions.”
The Humane Society Legislative Fund has hailed this new law as a major victory for animal rights. “For years, we have advocated for this measure, and we believe it represents a significant achievement in the realm of animal protection,” said Helen Marks, the organization’s president.
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Conclusion
In summary, the PACT Act signifies a pivotal change in how animal cruelty is treated in the United States, making it a federal felony and enhancing protections for animals. This legislation is a significant achievement for advocates and highlights the importance of strong laws to prevent cruelty and promote safety within our communities.