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House passes bill to make animal cruelty a federal crime

The U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill that would criminalize animal cruelty nationwide.

"This bill sends a clear message that our society does not accept cruelty against animals," Rep. Ted Deutch (D-Fla.) said, according to The Hill. "We've received support from so many Americans from across the country and across the political spectrum. Animal rights activists have stood up for living things that do not have a voice."

The bill, called the PACT Act, stands for the prevention of animal cruelty and torture. Deutch and Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.) introduced the bill in January.

It now moves to the Senate, and if it passes the senate will go to President Trump for his signature.

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