Congressional Reactions to Continued Cattle Abuse |
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May 23, 2008
Farm animals on their way to slaughter may be shockingly mistreated. With wrenching undercover video, The Humane Society of the United States brought the inhumane treatment of cattle into the glaring light of public disapproval this year.
The first investigation documented cruel slaughter plant handling of cows too sick or injured to stand on their own, and prompted the first Congressional appeals for change. The second HSUS investigation, brought forward this month, found similar abuse at livestock auctions.
After the latest investigation, Agriculture Secretary Ed Schafer announced that the USDA will ban slaughter for human consumption of "downer" cattle, although the timing of the ban is still unknown.
Continued Concerns, Calls to Action
Members of Congress expressed new concern over the situation, and urged the USDA to push forward regulation changes without delay.
- Reps. Gary Ackerman, D-N.Y.; Christopher Smith, R-N.J.; Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn.; and Ed Whitfield, R-Ky., asked the USDA to close the downer loophole immediately, May 23, 2008
- Sen. Richard Durbin, D-Ill., welcomed the USDA announcement and asked the Secretary to expedite the rulemaking process, May 20, 2008
- Rep. Rosa DeLauro decried the "unspeakable abuses" and asked for immediate implementation of the new rule, May 20, 2008
- Sen. Herb Kohl, D-Wisc., welcomed the USDA steps to close the downer loophole, May 20, 2008
- Senators Richard Durbin; Daniel Akaka, D-Hawaii; Maria Cantwell, D-Wash.; Patty Murray, D-Wash.; and John Kerry, D-Mass., called the treatment of cattle "intolerable" and urged prompt action, May 19, 2008
Related Links
USDA Announces Ban on Downer Cattle, Closing Loophole
Expanded Undercover Investigation Shows Mistreatment of Downer Cows Is Commonplace at Livestock Auctions
Congressional Reactions to the Hallmark Meat Packing Investigation
Undercover Investigation Reveals Rampant Animal Cruelty at California Slaughter Plant – A Major Beef Supplier to America’s School Lunch Program
