The U.S. House of Representatives Judiciary Committee has passed H.R.
6598, a measure known as the "Prevention of Equine Cruelty Act of 2008."
This bill prohibits transport, sale, delivery, or export of horses for
slaughter for human consumption. It also criminalizes the purchase,
sale, delivery, or export of horsemeat intended for human consumption.
Supporters praise the bill for banning the export of horses to
processing plants in Canada and Mexico.
"The bill passed by voice vote on Sept. 23," said Judiciary Committee
Communications Director Jonathan Godfrey. "The next step is introduction
on the House floor."
The bill was introduced in July by Judiciary Committee Chairman Rep.
John C. Conyers, (D-Mich.).
Violators would face fines and/or one year imprisonment for a first
offense or one involving five or fewer horses, and fines and/or three
years imprisonment for repeat offenses or those involving more than five
horses. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Customs would be
responsible for enforcing the measure. Folks please pass this on so we
can get ready for the house supporters. We must act very fast on this so
that pro slaughter cant dirty our bill with there lies.