The Chamber of Deputies in Brazil has approved a bill in commission that prohibits the use of animals to tow carriages throughout the national territory. The legislation aims to replace the existing state laws with a national discipline, clearer and more rigorous, extending the ban also to circus shows and all animal performances, including those spread online.
Those who violate the law will risk prison sentence from 2 to 5 years and a fine, with doubling of the sanction in the event that the animal suffers death. The main objective is to prevent mistreatment and guarantee the safety and well -being of the animals involved, without penalizing lawful and safe activities.
Specific exceptions and regulations
Despite the ban, some activities will remain allowed, always in compliance with the best animal management practices. These include: sporting and recreational activities with horses, such as horse riding, hippotherapy and controlled racing, the use of horses by public forces and family agriculture of subsistence, provided that all the rules of animal welfare are respected.
The approved text is a replacement developed by the Environment Commission, starting from the bill 176/23, promoted by the deputies Matheus Laiola and Bruno Lima. The speaker, deputy Bruno Ganem, specified that the penalties will be applied only in case of mistreatment, thus preserving the lawful and not harmful activities for animals.
The next steps for the law
The bill will now move on to the analysis of the commission of constitution and justice and citizenship and, if approved, will be voted by the plenary of the Chamber, subsequently by the Senate and finally request the presidential sanction to become law.
The measure represents an important step for social justice and the protection of animal rights, balancing protection and continuity of traditional cultural and agricultural practices. The experts and supporters of the cause underline that this provision will significantly reduce the number of animal abuse and exploitation, promoting a culture of greater respect and responsibility towards living beings.
Don’t you want to lose our news?
You may also be interested in:
