The Chamber of Deputies of Mexico approved a ruling that amends and adds articles 3, 4, and 73 of the Mexican Constitution regarding animal protection and care. The approval was unanimous with a qualified majority of 450 votes in favor.
Once approved, the document was sent to the Mexican Senate for its constitutional effects. The reservation presented by Deputy Martha Olivia García to article 73 section XXIX-G was accepted, to expand Congress's authority to issue laws on the protection and welfare of animals.
Deputy García pointed out that this modification establishes that animal care is a shared responsibility among federal, state, and municipal governments. Furthermore, legislation will be made for fair and dignified treatment, recognizing the importance of animals in people's lives and the environment.
The transitional article establishes that the Mexican Congress has a period of 180 days after the decree comes into force to issue the general law on animal protection and care. Mistreatment in the breeding, use, and slaughter of animals for human consumption is prohibited, as well as the use of wildlife specimens in profit-oriented shows.
Activists have celebrated the mention of animals in the Constitution. Igualdad Animal has highlighted the historic nature of this unanimous approval, considering it the beginning of a new phase in the relationship with animals, where their protection is guaranteed and mistreatment is prohibited.
Dulce Ramírez, director of Igualdad Animal Mexico, mentioned that recognizing constitutionally that animals deserve a life free of suffering will strengthen laws and policies for animal welfare in the country. The approval of this reform represents progress in animal protection at the national level and aligns Mexico with international standards.
The reform empowers Congress to legislate on animal protection, allowing for the creation of coherent and effective legislation to defend all animals in Mexico. This lays the groundwork for a fairer society where animal considerations are taken into account in all governmental instances.
The initiative also establishes that in study plans and programs, animal protection will be promoted, prohibiting their mistreatment and ensuring their care. Congress is empowered to issue laws that establish the cooperation of all levels of government in the protection of animals.
