Goldie’s Act

Goldie's Act would expand enforcement of the Animal Welfare Act by requiring the Department of Agriculture to create detailed written records of any violations found during inspections and investigations of research facilities, animal dealers, and animal exhibitors. These violation records would need to be shared with state, local, and municipal animal control and law enforcement officials within 24 hours of inspections.

The bill would mandate annual inspections at research facilities, animal dealer premises, and animal exhibitor locations. If violations are discovered, USDA inspectors would be required to conduct follow-up inspections until all violations are corrected. Additionally, inspectors would have authority to confiscate or humanely destroy animals found to be suffering physical or psychological harm due to non-compliance with the Animal Welfare Act. Violators would face civil penalties as specified in the legislation.

Currently in committee consideration, if enacted, this bill would increase oversight and accountability in animal care facilities by creating faster information sharing between federal and local authorities and ensuring violations are tracked and remedied.