August 1, 2001
		Congress Approves Increased Funds for "Humane Slaughter" Amendment (Note: the following news story uses the term "humane slaughter" even though Vegan Street believes that it is a contradiction in terms. Bearing that in mind, we will be using the term "humane slaughter" or the sake of clarity and for lack of a better term.) According to the office of Senator Robert Byrd (D-W. Va.), an amendment to the fiscal 2001 supplemental appropriations bill that increases funding for the Animal Welfare and Humane Slaughter Acts was spproved Friday by Congress. The amended bill, which passed both the House and Senate, is headed to President Bush's office for his endorsement. The legislation, which raises the budgeted amount for humane slaughter enforcement by about $3 million, was unanimously approved by the Senate. The funds will be distributed to heighten enforcement of the the Animal Welfare Act, to improve humane slaughter practices under the federal Meat Inspection Act and for the development of technologies to improve the treatment of animals within slaughterhouse facilities. Senator Byrd first announced his support for humane treatment of animals on July 9, when spoke of the bond between animals and people, and condemned the cruel treatment of those imprisoned in factory farms and slaughterhouse facilities. "Barbaric treatment of helpless, defenseless creatures must not be tolerated even if these animals are being raised for food -- and even more so. Such insensitivity is insidious and can be spread and is dangerous. Life must be respected and dealt with humanely in a civilized society," Byrd said on the Senate floor. Byrd included language to the bill directing the secretary of Agriculture to report on cases on inhumane treatment of animals in meat production and to document the response of the U.S.D.A. regulatory agents. "Oh, these are animals, yes, but they, too, feel pain," Byrd said. "These agencies can do a better job, and with this provision they will know that the Congress expects them to do better in their inspections, in their enforcement of the law, and in their research for new, humane technologies. Additionally, those who perpetuate such barbaric practices will be put on notice that they are being watched."