On April 9, 2014, Representative Steve Cohen (D-TN) introduced the Horse Transportation Safety Act of 2014 (H.R. 4440). The bill would prohibit the interstate transport of any horse in a double-deck truck. This bill is the House version of S. 1459 which Senator Mark Kirk (R-IL) introduced in 2013.
The bill would prohibit the interstate transport of any horse in a double-deck truck, including ones specially designed for horses. It would impose civil penalties of $100 to $500 for each violation of the proposed prohibition. A separate violation occurs for each horse transported.
Several states have passed legislation banning the transport of horses in these trucks, but there is no federal prohibition. However, it is illegal to transport horses to slaughter in such vehicles.
The bill has one co-sponsor and has been referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure where it awaits further action.
For more information visit the American Horse Council website.
