Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Ban Slaughter of "Downed" Animals
News Date January 30, 2007
Reps. Steven C. LaTourette (R-Ohio) and Gary Ackerman (D-N.Y.) have introduced legislation that will ban the slaughter of downed animals such as cattle that are too sick or injured to stand or walk. LaTourette said the measure is about food safety and ensuring the humane treatment of animals headed to slaughter.
The "Downed Animal and Food Safety Protection Act" (H.R. 661) has 75 original co-sponsors in the House and a companion bill is being introduced in the Senate by Sen. Daniel Akaka (D-Hawaii). The measures are supported by the Humane Society of the United States. Both the House and Senate have previously approved downed animal legislation, but the legislation has never received final passage by Congress.