The bill H.R. 5041/S. 2555 proposes transferring enforcement of federal breeder licensing from USDA to DOJ, potentially jeopardizing hobby breeder exemptions. It could undermine animal welfare oversight by removing expertise and imposing penalties without USDA involvement. Contact your Senators and Representative to oppose the bill, stressing the risks it poses to animal welfare and the redundancy it creates in enforcement. Alternatives like enhancing USDA resources for enforcement should be considered.
For more detailed information, check this news brief from the American Kennel Club.
I've drafted a letter you can use to write to your state representatives. If you aren't sure who your representatives are, just put your zip code into this page on House.gov. Feel free to modify this in any way:
[Your Senator's Name]
[Senator's Office Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear Senator [Last Name],
I am writing to urgently express my opposition to H.R. 5041/S. 2555, the "Better CARE for Animals Act," currently gaining traction in Congress. This bill, if passed, would have detrimental consequences for animal welfare and regulatory oversight.
By allowing the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to circumvent USDA animal experts in enforcing federal breeder licensing under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), H.R. 5041/S. 2555 undermines the specialized expertise necessary for effective oversight. Placing enforcement authority with DOJ, an agency lacking in animal expertise, risks compromising the welfare of animals and the integrity of regulatory enforcement.
Furthermore, the bill's potential to remove current exemptions for small hobby breeders could burden them with unnecessary licensing requirements and compliance standards, further straining limited resources.
I urge you to oppose H.R. 5041/S. 2555 and advocate for measures that enhance USDA's capacity for animal welfare enforcement. Strengthening regulatory oversight is crucial for safeguarding the well-being of animals and upholding public trust in legislative processes.
Thank you for considering my concerns regarding this critical issue.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
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