23 January, two Congressman from Florida re-introduced a bill according to which animal abuse and bestiality are Federal crimes.
The law on the prevention of cruelty to animals (PACT) promoted by the members of the house of representatives Ted Deutsch and Vern Buchanan. It concerns the application of animal mutilation, and sexual exploitation. Persons who violate this law could face up to 7 years of imprisonment. The bill contains exceptions for ordinary veterinary care, hunting, and behavior necessary to protect life or property from a serious threat from the animal.
Humane Society of the United States welcomed the new law and agreed that it will close a loophole in the law of 2010, which applied only to video production with the torture of animals.
Buchanan said that the torture of innocent animals is disgusting and should be punished to the fullest extent of the law.
The torture of innocent animals is abhorrent and should be punished to the fullest extent of the law. Protecting animals from cruelty is a top priority for me and I look forward to working with Democratic @RepTedDeutch on this important issue. #Sayfie https://t.co/CLza5Wfu8t
— Rep. Vern Buchanan (@VernBuchanan) January 23, 2019
Deutsch called the new project common sense, a law designed to bring more compassion to animals in the legal system of the United States. He believes that the law of 2010 against the live torture and killing of animals is not enough to protect our little brothers from the bullying.
The U.S. Senate twice unanimously passed the law PACT. At the previous session of Congress, he received support from the 284 members of a bipartisan chamber, and more than 200 endorsements from law enforcement. However, the White house, the law was blocked by the former head of the judiciary Bob Goodlatte.
Sarah Amundson, President of the Humane Society Legislative Fund, said the bill is likely to be accepted at the next session. She also added that it can reduce the number of other types of crimes. Amundson noted that several decades ago the Federal Bureau of investigation has recognized the seriousness of animal cruelty and its connection with the widespread violence against people.
