Better CARE for Animals Act of 2025
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To President
- Became Law
Overview
The Better CARE for Animals Act of 2025 aims to strengthen the enforcement of the Animal Welfare Act by expanding the authority of the Attorney General and the Secretary of Agriculture. It clarifies definitions, increases penalties for violations, and allows for the seizure and forfeiture of animals involved in violations. The bill also establishes a memorandum of understanding between the Secretary and the Attorney General to improve information sharing regarding animal welfare violations.
Key provisions
- Expands the Attorney General’s enforcement authority under the Animal Welfare Act.
- Increases civil penalties for violations of the Act to up to $10,000 per day.
- Allows for the seizure and forfeiture of animals involved in violations to the United States.
- Requires the use of penalties collected to cover temporary care costs for animals pending legal proceedings.
- Establishes a memorandum of understanding between the Secretary of Agriculture and the Attorney General for information sharing.
- Clarifies that court jurisdiction extends to violations of rules, standards, and regulations related to the Act.
- Authorizes judges to issue warrants for enforcement purposes.
- Provides for a savings clause ensuring that changes do not affect existing enforcement authority.
Who is affected
- Animal dealers and exhibitors
- Animal owners
- The Secretary of Agriculture
Bill text
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Sponsors
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200 on record
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