Representative Vern Buchanan (R-FL) announced that he has received a 100% rating from the U.S. Humane Society’s 2023 legislative scorecard.
The Florida congressman serves as the co-chairman of the bipartisan Animal Protection Caucus. He was one of 13 Members on the right side of the aisle to receive a perfect score.
“As a proud dog owner, I’m honored to receive a 100 percent score from the Humane Society,” said Congressman Buchanan. “Protecting wildlife and combatting animal cruelty are bipartisan and commonsense issues everyone can get behind.”
The Humane Society has described Rep. Buchanan as a “tireless champion for animals,” according to Buchanan’s press release.
Recently, the Florida congressman 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, per 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.”
Buchanan's bill has the support of organizations such as the ASPCA, the Animal Welfare Institute, and the National Sheriffs’ Association, among others.
