Attacking police dogs or horses may now lead to deportation from the US
Washington (The Uttam Hindu): The US House Judiciary Committee has approved a bill that could make non-citizens ineligible to enter the United States or face deportation if they harm police dogs or horses used in law enforcement duties. Supporters of the move say it will strengthen protection for animals assisting security agencies.
The committee voted 18–12 to advance the bill, known as H.R. 4638, which focuses on preventing injuries to government working animals. With certain amendments, the committee has recommended that the bill be passed by the full House.
The proposed legislation seeks to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act. Under the bill, any person who injures animals used in law enforcement operations would be considered inadmissible to the US and could be deported if found guilty. The rule would also apply to individuals who admit to committing such an offense.
Republican lawmakers argue that the bill will address gaps in the immigration system and allow quicker action against offenders. The legislation specifically targets dogs and horses used by federal agencies for security and investigation purposes.
According to the Judiciary Committee, an incident in June 2025 at Washington Dulles International Airport helped bring attention to the issue. A citizen of Egypt allegedly kicked a beagle dog deployed for inspection after the animal alerted officials about prohibited food items in the passenger’s luggage.
The individual later admitted guilt under federal law, paid veterinary expenses, and was deported from the United States. Supporters of the bill say the new law will clearly define immigration consequences in such cases, allowing faster and more consistent action in the future.
However, Democratic members of the committee strongly opposed the bill. Maryland Representative Jamie Raskin said the legislation is unnecessary, arguing that the behavior it targets is already a federal crime and existing laws already carry immigration consequences after conviction.
The dissenting members also noted that under current law, cases involving cruelty to animals are already treated as serious moral offenses by immigration authorities if they lead to a conviction.
The committee added that at the time of filing its report, no cost estimate for the bill had been provided by the Congressional Budget Office. It clarified that the bill does not create any new federal programs or authorize additional spending. The legislation will now move to the full House, where debate is expected on immigration law, public safety, and legal rights.