Issue Position: Animal Welfare - Protecting Domestic Animals

Issue Position

Congressman Blumenauer was the original sponsor of the Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act, H.R. 137. This legislation makes animal fighting a felony, punishable with up to two years of jail time. It garnered major bi-partisan support with 307 co-sponsors and passed overwhelmingly by a vote of 368-39. The bill became Public Law No: 110-22 on May 3rd, 2007. Congressman Blumenauer has been active on this issue and has spoken on the floor about the link between animal fighting and the proliferation of avian influenza.

Building on this success, Congressman Blumenauer introduced the Dog Fighting Protection Act, H.R. 3327. This legislation currently has 107 bi-partisan co-sponsors and is strongly supported by the animal welfare community. The horrendous acts of NFL star Michael Vick and his animal fighting business became top news during the summer and fall of 2007 and Congressman Blumenauer's animal fighting bills received many media hits and endorsements around the country as a sound response to the grotesque industry.

Congressman Blumenauer also used his seat on the Ways and Means Committee to introduce legislation the Charitable Remainder Pet Trust Act, H.R. 2491. This legislation will provide a tax incentive for people to arrange for the long-term care of their pets, which will result in the reduction of society's burden in caring for "unwanted" dogs and cat after the guardian dies while also encouraging people to engage in charitable giving.
Over sixty three percent of American Households have pets, and many consider them a member of the family. The federal government can play a role in helping families keep their pets safe and setting up mechanisms to allow that they are cared for in the future.

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