Bill would extend federal ban on eating dogs and cats to horses
In committeeH.R. 1661Latest action
Sponsor: Vern Buchanan · Representative · FL
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: SAFE Act of 2025
119th Congress
Topics: Jobs & the economy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
The plain-language version comes first. The official text is always the reference.
HR 1661 would make it illegal to slaughter horses and other equines for human food, as already applies to dogs and cats.
40-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
HR 1661, the SAFE Act of 2025, amends the 2018 farm bill to add horses, mules, donkeys, and other equines to the existing federal ban on slaughtering dogs and cats for human consumption. No horse slaughterhouses currently operate in the U.S., so the bill mainly closes a loophole that could let a domestic horse slaughter industry restart. It would not directly stop horses from being transported to Canada or Mexico for slaughter there.
Who does it affect?
The bill affects horse owners, breeders, ranchers, animal welfare organizations, and companies involved in transporting or processing livestock.
Why does it matter?
Supporters say it protects horses, which many Americans view differently from other livestock, from being killed for meat, though agricultural groups and rural communities may see the practical impact differently.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedFeb 27, 2025
- House committeeYou are here · Mar 28, 2025
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Referred to the Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry.