PAST Act of 2025

Bill 119 hr 1684, also known as the Horse Protection Act Amendment, aims to make changes to the existing Horse Protection Act in order to better protect horses from abuse and mistreatment. The bill includes provisions to designate additional unlawful acts under the Act, strengthen penalties for violations of the Act, and improve enforcement by the Department of Agriculture.

Some of the key changes proposed in the bill include expanding the list of prohibited acts related to the mistreatment of horses, such as soring (the practice of intentionally causing pain to a horse's legs to enhance its gait). The bill also seeks to increase penalties for those found in violation of the Act, in order to deter future instances of abuse.

Additionally, the bill includes measures to enhance the enforcement capabilities of the Department of Agriculture, which is responsible for overseeing compliance with the Horse Protection Act. This may include providing additional resources and training for inspectors, as well as implementing stricter oversight measures to ensure that the Act is being effectively enforced. Overall, the Horse Protection Act Amendment aims to strengthen protections for horses and ensure that those who engage in abusive practices are held accountable. By making these changes, the bill seeks to improve the welfare of horses and prevent instances of cruelty and mistreatment within the horse industry.