Paws Up! H.R. 3475: SAFE Act of 2023 would end the slaughter of horses for human consumption.
June 27, 2023
When people in the United States think of horses, they often think of their companion animals. Most people would never consider consuming them. In fact, it is illegal in the United States to slaughter horses for human consumption. However, the ban is temporary and is subject to annual congressional review. There also is currently no law prohibiting the transportation of horses across the United States border for slaughter.
Representative Vern Buchanan and Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky introduced the Save America’s Forgotten Equines Act of 2023 or the SAFE Act of 2023. The SAFE Act of 2023 was introduced on May 18, 2023. This bill aims to close all loopholes and stop the United States’ involvement with horse slaughter and horse consumption altogether. The SAFE Act of 2023 would amend the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 to include horses instead of only cats and dogs.
It is long overdue that these companion animals gain this added protection. As quoted by Representative Vern Buchanan, “The slaughter of horses for human consumption is a barbaric practice that has no place in America.” These majestic animals that have helped and befriended humans deserve the same regard.
Do you support the SAFE Act of 2023? Contact your legislators here.