Sponsors (38)
The bill strengthens federal enforcement and coordination to better stop animal-welfare violations and assist caretakers, but does so by expanding costly enforcement tools and liabilities that raise compliance, litigation, and administrative burdens for regulated entities, taxpayers, and some low-resource owners.
Regulated facilities (breeders, exhibitors, research facilities), nonprofits, and animals: the bill strengthens federal enforcement by explicitly affirming DOJ authority to bring Animal Welfare Act cases and by adding civil tools (injunctions, seizure, forfeiture, and fines), making it more likely serious animal-welfare violations are stopped and animals removed from harmful conditions.
Nonprofits and other organizations that temporarily care for seized animals: the bill requires reimbursement for reasonable and necessary care and transfer costs from collected fines, reducing the financial burden on caretakers.
Dealers and exhibitors, and the public relying on regulated commerce: the bill requires dealers and exhibitors to hold valid (non-suspended) licenses for commercial activity, improving oversight and reducing unlicensed commercial animal trade.
Licensed and unlicensed individuals and businesses facing enforcement actions: the bill authorizes civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation per day, creating the potential for very large financial liabilities.
Regulated entities (research facilities, exhibitors, breeders): affirming stronger federal enforcement increases legal exposure and litigation costs as more cases may be brought in federal court.
Licensed dealers and exhibitors: the bill expands inspection and enforcement scope, which may increase regulatory and compliance costs for businesses that must meet stricter oversight.
Based on analysis of 3 sections of legislative text.
Introduced April 30, 2025 by Richard Blumenthal · Last progress April 30, 2025
Strengthens federal enforcement of the Animal Welfare Act by expanding investigative and civil authority for the Department of Justice, increasing penalties, authorizing seizure and forfeiture of animals, and requiring the USDA and DOJ to coordinate through a memorandum of understanding within 180 days. It also tightens licensing requirements for dealers and exhibitors and directs fines to help cover reasonable costs of temporary care for animals seized or held pending legal proceedings.