When the Society for Animal Protective Legislation (SAPL) was founded in
1955, only two federal laws to protect animals existed. There had been a
dearth of laws because humane organizations spent most of their time
caring for lost and stray animals, and they were concerned about losing
their tax-exempt status by doing too much work on legislation.
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Important Legislative Initiatives Advanced by SAPL
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The two previously enacted laws were the 1906 “28-hour Law” to protect
livestock shipped by rail and the 1948 law authorizing US Customs to
prosecute those who fail to maintain reasonably humane standards when
shipping animals. These dates and the 42 years between them demonstrate
the lack of action on federal legislation to protect animals before SAPL’s
founding.
The Society registered under the Federal Lobbying Act in 1955 to devote
its efforts entirely to the passage of animal welfare laws, substantially
aiding the ratification of 15 federal laws and nine strengthening
amendments over the years. While passing this type of legislation is our
primary goal, our work also includes combating bad bills and pushing for
sound regulations to implement laws and strong funding to enforce
government programs. We work on international and local laws as
well.
SAPL prepares information for Members of Congress and their staffs. We
send action alerts to individuals and organizations interested in animal
protective legislation, informing them of ways in which they may
help—often by writing to Members of Congress or other government officials
and to the editors of newspapers. You can help by joining SAPL; a
willingness to contact your elected representatives about animal-related
bills is our only “fee.”
Due to positive tax law changes, the Society was able to become a
division of the Animal Welfare Institute (AWI) in 2003, allowing it to
lobby unencumbered and allowing you to make tax-deductible contributions
to our work through AWI. However, please note any donations earmarked for
SAPL would not be deductible.
The Society for Animal Protective Legislation needs your help to
continue its essential work. If you believe in the protection of animals
by law, please give generously. Since contributions are not tax
deductible, the Society is always under funded.
