The full Chamber of Deputies unanimously approved with 450 votes in favor reforms to articles 3rd, 4th, and 73 of the Constitution with the aim of establishing the responsibility and obligation of federal, state, and municipal governments to care for and prevent the mistreatment of animals. This initiative is part of the package of 20 legal proposals left by former president López Obrador.
According to the approved ruling, it is emphasized that animal care is a coordinated responsibility among the mentioned levels of government, highlighting the importance of ensuring fair and dignified treatment for animals, recognizing their relevance in people's lives and in the environment. The goal is to promote a Mexico that fosters respect, empathy, and care for living beings, giving them voice and protection.
The reform establishes that animal welfare will be a fundamental axis in public policies, promoting the protection of animals in educational plans and programs. Animal mistreatment is explicitly prohibited, and it states that the Mexican State must guarantee their protection, adequate treatment, conservation, and care, in accordance with relevant laws.
Furthermore, it empowers the Union Congress to enact laws that establish cooperation among different levels of government in the protection of animals, clearly defining what is considered animal mistreatment and establishing deadlines and resources for its implementation.
Regarding financial aspects, it specifies that expenses generated after the reform comes into effect will be financed with the resources approved in the corresponding expenditure budgets for the current fiscal year, without authorizing additional resources. All legal provisions that go against what is established in the decree will be repealed.
The ruling, derived from an initiative presented by the Federal Executive on February 5, 2024, and various legislative proposals in the LXV Legislature, seeks to establish a solid legal basis to protect and guarantee the welfare of animals in Mexico.
