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Goldie’s Act
3/15/2025, 8:05 AM
Summary of Bill HR 349
Specifically, the bill includes provisions to enhance enforcement mechanisms, such as increasing fines for violations and providing additional resources for inspections. It also calls for the establishment of a national database to track violations and ensure that repeat offenders are held accountable.
Additionally, the bill includes measures to improve the welfare of animals in research facilities, zoos, and other institutions covered by the Animal Welfare Act. This includes requirements for proper housing, feeding, and medical care for animals, as well as provisions to prevent the mistreatment and abuse of animals. Overall, Bill 119 HR 349 aims to strengthen protections for animals and ensure that the Animal Welfare Act is effectively enforced. It is intended to promote the humane treatment of animals and hold violators accountable for their actions.
Congressional Summary of HR 349
Goldie's Act
This bill expands enforcement provisions under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA).
Specifically, the bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to document and record detailed descriptions of violations of the act observed during inspections and investigations. USDA must provide a copy of all records documenting violations to state, local, and municipal animal control or law enforcement officials within 24 hours of such inspections or investigations.
Inspections must be held at least once a year of each research facility, the premises of each animal dealer, and each exhibitor of animals. If violations are found during inspections, then USDA must conduct any necessary follow-up inspections until all the violations are corrected. Inspectors must confiscate or destroy in a humane manner animals found to be suffering physical or psychological harm as a result of failure to comply with the AWA.
Violators are subject to civil penalties as outlined in the bill.
