Animal cruelty is a serious crime. It harms innocent animals and, as many law enforcement officials acknowledge, can be linked to broader patterns of violence.

Rep. Nancy Mace has introduced legislation that would make non-citizens deportable if convicted of animal cruelty.

But animal abuse is not an immigration issue first — it is a criminal justice and public safety issue that affects communities across the United States.

If we are serious about protecting animals, then federal lawmakers must focus on strengthening animal cruelty laws across the board — ensuring tougher penalties where needed, closing enforcement gaps, improving tracking of offenders, and supporting states in prosecuting abuse cases effectively.

Justice for abused animals should not depend on someone’s immigration status. Every person who commits cruelty should face meaningful consequences under the law.

We call on Rep. Nancy Mace and members of Congress to prioritize comprehensive federal animal cruelty reform that protects animals nationwide — strengthening enforcement, improving coordination, and ensuring no abuser escapes accountability.

Protect animals first. Strengthen the law for everyone.

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