Amendment to ban horse transport across state or federal lines for consumption passes in House infrastructure bill

Last week the House passed a $715 billion infrastructure package with an amendment to ban the transport of horses across state or federal lines for slaughter for human consumption.

Rep. Troy Carter, D-La., was the lead sponsor of the bipartisan amendment, first conceived by nonprofit organization Animal Wellness Action.

"This is not a new issue for Congress," Carter said in a press release. "A lot of work has been done by great members on both sides of the aisle to put an end to this horrible practice, and a lot of ground has been gained. However, a legal loophole allowed tens of thousands of American equines to be exported each year to Canada and Mexico for slaughter. The conditions on these journeys are particularly inhumane, with horses crammed inside trailers for long journeys without adequate water, food, or rest. I offered this amendment because it was a chance to end this heinous practice once and for all and I am glad to see its successful passage."

Marty Irby, executive director of Animal Wellness Action, told The Rural Blog he has discussed the amendment with several high-ranking senators and believes there's a "very good chance" it may be included in the final Senate bill.