This bill strengthens how the government enforces animal protection laws. Right now, when someone violates the Animal Welfare Act (which sets standards for how animals must be treated), enforcement is limited. This bill gives the Department of Justice more power to take action by allowing them to file civil lawsuits—a faster legal process than criminal prosecution—against people who mistreat animals. If they win these cases, the DOJ can order violators to give up their animals, take away their licenses to operate animal facilities, or pay financial penalties. Here's the practical part: any money collected from these penalties gets set aside specifically to pay for caring for animals that are taken away during investigations or court cases. This means animals won't have to wait in limbo without proper care while the legal process plays out. Essentially, the bill makes it easier for the government to stop animal abuse quickly and ensures that rescued animals are properly cared for while cases are being decided.

Better CARE for Animals Act of 2023

Blumenthal, Richard

Better Collaboration, Accountability, and Regulatory Enforcement for Animals Act of 2023 or the Better CARE for Animals Act of 2023 This bill modifies enforcement provisions under the Animal Welfare Act, including by allowing the Department of Justice (DOJ) to bring civil actions against violators of the act for appropriate relief, such as removing animals, revoking violators' licenses, or issuing civil penalties. DOJ must use the penalties to pay for the temporary care for animals pending the disposition of civil or criminal proceedings that allege violations of the act with respect to such animals.