In a “major step to end animal abuse,” the House of Representatives Tuesday unanimously passed a bill that would make animal cruelty a federal felony.
The bipartisan Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture (PACT) Act was first introduced by Reps. Ted Deutch, D-Fla., and Vern Buchanan, R-Fla, and would outlaw a type of animal abuse known as “crushing,” in which people maim and torture animals. Other forms of torture, including burning, drowning, suffocating, and impaling would also be banned.
If the bill becomes law, violators found guilty of torturing animals would face felony charges, fines, and up to seven years in prison.
Animal Wellness Foundation Director of Federal Affairs Holly Gann said of the bill, “Most people are shocked to know that the U.S. does not have a federal animal cruelty law. Enacting this bill sends a signal that our nation has no tolerance for intentional cruelty toward animals.”
Via Fox News