Legislation: Advancing Protections for Wild Horses and Burros

AWHC's Legislative Success in Protecting Wild HorsesAWHC's Legislative Success in Protecting Wild Horses

American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Campaign) is dedicated to advancing legislation that enhances the welfare of wild horses and burros both on the range and in government holding facilities. Our efforts include collaboration with advocacy groups, engaging with Congress, and empowering supporters to advocate for these majestic animals.

Our legislative goals focus on repealing the Burns Amendment, maintaining the Congressional ban on slaughter, and promoting humane birth control over inhumane roundups. We aim to prevent the transfer of wild horses to states without protection from mass killing.

Legislative Successes

2019

  • Governor Gavin Newsom signed California Legislation AB 128 into law, sponsored by AWHC.
  • Worked with Senator Dianne Feinstein to include language in the Fiscal Year 2020 appropriations bill to protect wild horses from slaughter.
  • Secured language in the House appropriations to prohibit the U.S. Forest Service from selling wild horses and burros for slaughter.
  • Achieved a victory in New Mexico with SB158, preventing the Livestock Board from controlling the fate of wild horses.

2018

  • Sponsored legislation authored by Assemblymember Todd Gloria, AB128, to strengthen protections against horse slaughter.

2017

  • Facilitated an agreement for the humane management of the Salt River wild horses in Arizona.
  • Increased congressional support against horse slaughter and for humane management.

2016

  • Helped pass the Salt River Wild Horse Protection Act in Arizona, safeguarding a cherished wild horse population.

2013

  • Passed legislation in Nevada for cooperative agreements to manage the Virginia Range wild horses humanely.
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