US HB2976

Expands the Animal Welfare Act's definition of "animal" to include cold-blooded species: reptiles, amphibians, cephalopods, and fish, in addition to currently covered warm-blooded animals

Applies federal animal welfare protections to cold-blooded animals used for research, testing, experimentation, exhibition, or as pets

Maintains existing exclusions for birds, rats, and mice bred for research; horses not used for research; and farmed animals used for food, fiber, or agricultural improvement purposes

Clarifies that all dogs are covered under the Act, including those used for hunting, security, or breeding purposes

Introduced April 21, 2025 by Rep. McCollum and referred to the House Committee on Agriculture