Beagle Brigade Act of 2023

Beagle Brigade Act of 2023

This bill provides statutory authority for the National Detector Dog Training Center that is operated by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) of the Department of Agriculture. The center trains dogs to inspect passenger baggage, cargo, mailed packages, and vehicles to detect foreign pests and diseases that threaten domestic agriculture and natural resources.

The bill also requires APHIS to report to Congress on (1) current and emerging threats to domestic agricultural and natural resources from foreign pests and diseases, and (2) recommendations to improve the center's capabilities and procedures.

Bill 118 HR 1480, also known as the Beagle Brigade Act of 2023, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress with the aim of enhancing the protection of animals, specifically beagles, in the United States. The bill seeks to establish a specialized unit within the Department of Agriculture known as the Beagle Brigade, which will be responsible for detecting and preventing the illegal trafficking of animals, particularly beagles, across US borders.

The Beagle Brigade Act of 2023 outlines specific duties and responsibilities for the Beagle Brigade, including conducting inspections at ports of entry, working with law enforcement agencies to investigate suspected cases of animal trafficking, and coordinating with international partners to combat the global trade of illegal animals. The bill also allocates funding for training and equipping the Beagle Brigade officers to effectively carry out their duties.

Furthermore, the Beagle Brigade Act of 2023 includes provisions for increasing penalties for individuals found guilty of trafficking animals, as well as implementing stricter regulations on the import and export of animals to ensure their welfare and safety. The bill emphasizes the importance of protecting animals from exploitation and abuse, and aims to strengthen enforcement efforts to combat the illegal trade of animals. Overall, the Beagle Brigade Act of 2023 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that seeks to address the issue of animal trafficking, particularly focusing on the protection of beagles. By establishing a specialized unit within the Department of Agriculture and implementing stricter regulations and penalties, the bill aims to enhance the protection of animals and prevent their exploitation for profit.