Press Releases

U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) led a group of bipartisan House members in the reintroduction of legislation that would ban greyhound racing in the United States and outlaw gambling on the outcome of greyhound races simulcast from other nations.

“Greyhound racing is cruel, inhumane, and unpopular with the American public – which is why nearly every state has already voted to outlaw it,” said Rep. Carbajal. “As a member of the Animal Protection Caucus, I’m proud to stand with colleagues from both sides of the aisle to reintroduce bipartisan legislation that will finally put an end to this brutal practice and promote the universal welfare of our greyhounds.”

The lawmakers joining Carbajal in reintroducing the Greyhound Protection Act are Representatives Randy Fine (R-FL-06), Don Davis (D-NC-01), and Zach Nunn (R-IA-03).

“It’s great to work on a bill that protects man’s best friend. These animals deserve to be treated with respect and shouldn’t be exploited. In light of National Dog Day, I’m proud to contribute to this important legislation,” said Rep. Fine.

“Greyhound racing is a cruel and inhumane practice that has no place anywhere in this country,” said Rep. Nunn. “Iowa shut down its last greyhound track because our communities recognized the cruelty behind this industry. This bill follows Iowa's lead, ensuring man's best friend is treated with the care and respect every dog deserves.”

Greyhound racing is already illegal in 44 out of 50 states.

As American-raised greyhounds are also being exported to racetracks in other countries, the bill would also outlaw this practice. Read the full bill text here. 

The bill has the endorsement of more than 250 animal rights and protection groups, shelters, and other organizations–including Grey2K USA Worldwide and Animal Wellness Action.

"Greyhounds are sweet, gentle dogs, and for generations they have been exploited by the gambling industry," said Christine A. Dorchak, president and general counsel of GREY2K USA Worldwide. “We are a dog loving nation, and greyhound racing goes against our values about the humane treatment of dogs."

“Greyhounds should be safely on the laps of their humans and not taking a lap on a racing oval that puts them at risk of serious injury in front of nearly empty bleachers,” said Wayne Pacelle, president of Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy.  “We are immensely grateful to Rep. Carbajal for leading this fight in Congress.”

Carbajal is a member of the Congressional Animal Protection Caucus and has a 100% lifetime score with the Humane Society.