Man’s best friend deserves better than a lifetime of cruelty at the hands of puppy mill operators chasing a profit. That’s why I’ve been fighting to shut down these abusive operations since I first came to Congress.
What’s new: On Tuesday, I welcomed U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa in Des Moines to see firsthand the toll these abusive operations take on dogs and the shelters that step in to save them. ⬇️
Why it matters: Iowa remains one of the largest puppy mill states in the country. In 2024 alone, the Animal Rescue League and its partners rescued more than 400 animals from puppy mills, hoarding sites, and other inhumane conditions.
What we’re doing: This year, I secured a bipartisan amendment in the House-passed Farm Bill reinforcing USDA’s authority to crack down on abusive breeders. Since then, USDA has launched a new Animal Protection Bureau and stepped up enforcement, including more than 2,000 inspections and the suspension or revocation of 11 breeder licenses so far this year.
Bottom Line: Shelters like the Animal Rescue League give animals a second chance. But they shouldn’t have to be the last line of defense. I’ll keep fighting to get the Farm Bill signed into law and ensure USDA follows through on stopping abuse at the source.