Issue Position: Protecting Animals

Issue Position

During her time in Congress, Congresswoman Maloney has consistently supported efforts to ensure the humane treatment of animals.

Ending Horse Slaughter: Congresswoman Maloney believes the practice of slaughtering horses for human consumption should be permanently banned. That's why she has been a long-time supporter of legislation which would prohibit horse slaughter and related commercial activities. Over 90,000 American horses were slaughtered for human consumption last year, and many were likely mistreated on their way to the slaughterhouse. Congresswoman Maloney has also cosponsored legislation which would reinstate protection for wild horses from commercial slaughter. Wild horses are one of our nation's treasures, and she opposes their capture and slaughter.

Prohibiting the Sale of Horse Meat: In January 2014 Congress passed, as part of its annual budget, a law that prevented the USDA from inspecting horse meat. This effectively eliminated any opportunity for the sale or purchase of horse meat in America, ending the practice of horse slaughter for human consumption. Congresswoman Maloney strongly supported this measure.

Puppy Mills: Currently, Animal Welfare Act standards of care do not apply to commercial dog and cat breeders who sell animals directly to the public. These "puppy mills" do not have the best interests of the animals in mind, and often fail to provide adequate living conditions and veterinary care. Congresswoman Maloney supports legislation that would provide better oversight of these facilities. She has also joined her colleagues in supporting measures that would prohibit the U.S. import of puppies for commercial sale from foreign puppy mills. Any dog imported into the U.S. should be in good health and at least six months old. Congresswoman Maloney will continue to fight for these and other animal welfare issues.

Pet Evacuation: Hurricanes Katrina and Rita revealed a serious flaw in evacuation plans when many Gulf Coast residents were not allowed to bring pets with them while evacuating their homes. Congresswoman Maloney cosponsored and supported House passage of Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act (PETS) in the 109th Congress. The PETS Act, which was signed into law in October 2006, would require local and state disaster plans to include a provision regarding pets and service animals. People in disaster situations should not be made to choose between their pets or their own safety.

Source