ANIMAL WELFARE
Congressional Support
As a member of the Animal Protection Caucus, Susan works to protect both wild and domestic animals from cruelty and abuse. Look here for more information.
Susan was honored to receive the Humane Society of the United States’ Humane Advocate Award, an honor bestowed in recognition of her commitment to animal welfare legislation in Congress.
Transparency within USDA
Susan closely follows local events and reporting; so, in response to constituent concerns and a series of articles published by Voice of San Diego on the activities of USDA’s Wildlife Services program, she introduced legislation to require the USDA to publish clear and accessible information about its activities in San Diego County and other counties throughout the country. The legislation is entitled the Transparency for Lethal Control Act (H.R. 6308).
The Wildlife Services program is responsible for intervening in situations when an animal is considered a threat or serious nuisance to humans. In some cases, animals are killed to fulfill this mission. There has been ongoing controversy when it comes to the transparency and accountability of Wildlife Services.
She believes the killing of animals should not be a routine or reflexive government response. It should only be undertaken, if at all, after careful deliberation and under strict supervision. For that reason, the public and Congress need to have the opportunity for vigorous oversight to ensure that the USDA is acting appropriately and considering all cheaper and more humane alternatives.
Cosponsored Legislation:
- Cracking Down on Animal Fighting
Susan is a cosponsor of the Animal Fighting Spectator Prohibition Act of 2013 (H.R. 366), which would make it illegal to attend an animal fight or to expose a minor to this horrific practice.
- Stopping Puppy Mills
Susan is a cosponsor of the Puppy Uniform Protection and Safety Act (H.R. 847), legislation to stop the abusive and unhealthy practices associated with puppy mill breeding operations.
- Ending Horse Soring
Susan has also cosponsored the Prevent All Soring Tactics (or PAST) Act (H.R. 1518) to end the cruel practice of soring show horses.