ASSOCIATION • Circus Members
Animal Legislation Update V
Virginia Update
A SB 1125, introduced by Senator Boysko, would have dramatically restricted animal care prac- ticesacrossVirginia. Thebillproposedmak-
ing it illegal to hand-raise baby animals in zoos except in medical emergencies, while also banning intentional hy- bridization of captive animals. This sweeping legislation ignored fundamental animal care principles—particularly how hand-rearing helps desensitize animals to human in- teraction, which is crucial for their future care and training in zoological and farm settings. More concerning still, the bill's broad language would have affected established ag- ricultural practices, potentially impacting the breeding of valuable hybrid species like beefalo and mules, the latter proving essential in disaster response scenarios like the aftermath of Hurricane Helene in North Carolina. Governor Youngkin has now vetoed this bill, marking a significant win for Virginia's agricultural community and small live- stock farmers. The decision came after careful consider- ation and meetings with stakeholders, including farmers and industry representatives. This veto preserves existing relationships between animal owners and veterinarians while protecting traditional farming practices that have been refined over generations. The successful opposition to the bill revealed its true nature—not as an animal wel- fare measure, but as an attempt to sever the human-animal bond that has defined responsible animal husbandry for centuries. The collaborative effort against the bill involved support from elected officials, news organizations, and countless citizens who recognized its potential harm. While future challenges may arise, for now, Virginia's animal care professionals can continue their essential work without these restrictive limitations.
by Vanessa Gagne, Government Relations & Communications Consultant
HPA Update The USDA APHIS is pushing back its Horse Protection Act
rule changes to February 1, 2026. This is the second delay, following an earlier postponement from February to April 2025. The only part already in effect is the horse inspector training section, which began last June. APHIS wants public input on whether to delay the rule even longer. Anyone can comment on this from March 21 to May 20, 2025, through the website. This comes after APHIS re- cently updated stakeholders about the upcoming horse show season, following a court decision that affected the new rule. For context, the Horse Protection Act stops sored horses (horses injured to enhance their gait) from being shown, sold, or transported to events. Interestingly, during that same time frame, Congressman DesJarlais introduced US HR 1675, the Protecting Horses from Soring Act of 2025. This bill aims to create more appropriate regulations for Tennessee Walking Horses by requiring the USDA to col- laborate with horse industry organizations (HIOs). The leg- islation addresses longstanding concerns with USDA regu- lations that DesJarlais calls "arbitrary" and poorly suited to the unique gait and abilities of Tennessee Walking Horses. The industry, which brings significant tourism revenue to Tennessee's Fourth Congressional District, would benefit from more tailored oversight and properly trained inspec- tors. The bill seeks to balance horse protection with indus- try-specific needs, ensuring regulations reflect the distinct characteristics of these celebrated show horses.
See you down the road, Vanessa
this spot could be yours
but you haven't
claimed it yet.
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