[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 132 (Tuesday, December 5, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2100]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    ANIMAL ENTERPRISE TERRORISM ACT

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                               speech of

                           HON. STEVE ISRAEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, November 13, 2006

  Mr. ISRAEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my concerns with S. 
3880, The Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act.
  I believe that individuals and groups cannot resort to intimidation, 
vandalism or violence in the advancement of a cause. Protests must be 
lawful and disagreements respected. But, this bill, as drafted, could 
criminalize lawful and constitutionally protected activists.
  This bill criminalizes conduct that ``intentionally damages or causes 
the loss of any real or personal property,'' however, the bill fails to 
define what ``real or personal property'' means. As a result, 
legitimate advocacy--such as a boycott, protest, or mail campaign--that 
causes an animal enterprise to merely lose profits could be 
criminalized under S. 3880.
  It also fails to adequately define the term ``animal enterprise.'' 
Nothing in the current definition requires that an enterprise be 
lawful. Therefore, investigations into unlawful animal enterprises, 
such as animal fighting organizations or illegal puppy mills, could be 
deterred as employees, citizens, and legitimate animal activists may be 
afraid to cooperate or provide information to law enforcement agencies 
for fear of prosecution under the terms of this bill.
  I am a strong supporter of research, but I also believe that animal 
rights need to be vigilantly enforced. In order to achieve that goal, I 
have been working with the Humane Society on amendments to the Animal 
Rights Act, which is the law that governs the humane care, handling, 
treatment and transportation of animals in laboratories and dealers who 
sell animals to laboratories and animal exhibitors. My bill would 
provide two keys changes to this law. First, it doubles the fine for 
violations (from $5,000 to $10,000) and increases the number of annual 
inspections at laboratories.
  I will be introducing this measure when the House comes back for the 
110th Congress, and I hope that all of my colleagues will join me in 
providing these additional animal protections.

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