Representatives Vern Buchanan (R-FL) and Dina Titus (D-NV) introduced a bipartisan, bicameral bill that calls on the Department of Justice (DOJ) to study the link between animal abusers and those who commit violence against humans.
Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Gary Peters (D-MI).
The legislation is known as the Animal Violence Exposes Real Threat of (AVERT) Future Violence Act of 2024. It would also call on the DOJ to recommend policies to help prevent domestic abuse. A $2 million annual grant would be authorized to go to mental health experts, law enforcement, and animal welfare organizations, according to Rep. Buchanan’s press release.
“Not surprisingly, deranged individuals who abuse innocent animals are significantly more likely to go on to commit violence against people,” said Congressman Buchanan. “In fact, studies have shown that nearly 40 percent of known animal abusers commit crimes against humans as well. I’m pleased to lead efforts with Congresswoman Titus to study the troubling connection between domestic abuse and animal violence.”
Rep. Titus added that this bill will give lawmakers more information to make “informed legislative decisions” to address this issue.
“Animal abusers have a significantly higher likelihood of committing future acts of interpersonal violence,” said Congresswoman Titus. “Despite this, animal abuse continues to be treated as an isolated act rather than a deeper indicator of violent behavior. By collecting data to study the link between animal and domestic abuse, we will be able to make informed legislative decisions that improve public safety, decrease incidents of domestic violence, and protect animals.”
Furthermore, Sen. Peters stated that this bill is “commonsense.”
“There is a clear connection between animal abuse and interpersonal violence, but more research is needed to help our communities effectively prevent and respond to red flags when we see them,” said Senator Peters. “This commonsense, bipartisan bill would improve our understanding of how a history of animal abuse can lead to future violence, while directing needed federal resources to the local partners who work to protect our communities each and every day.”
Buchanan's bill has the support of organizations such as the ASPCA, the Animal Welfare Institute, and the National Sheriffs’ Association, among others.
