House Passes Bill That Bans
Consumption of Dogs and Cats On Wednesday,
the House of Representatives Republican Rep. Vern Buchanan and Democratic Rep. Alcee Hastings sponsored The Dog and Cat Meat Trade Prohibition Act
of 2018. Buchanan released a statement that dog and cat meat "should be outlawed completely given how beloved these animals are for most Americans." The bill makes an exception for Indian tribes, as long as the purpose is "religious ceremony." Democratic Rep. Alcee Hastings The bill also prevents foreign and interstate trade of cats and dogs for consumption. The maximum penalty for dog and cat consumption is $5,000.