As an additional backstop against resumption of horse slaughter in the US, the House has passed an FY 2012 appropriations bill that includes an amendment offered by Rep. Jim Moran (D-VA) prohibiting the USDA from spending tax dollars to inspect horse slaughter facilities. While not a substitute for a permanent ban, this defund language—first adopted in 2005—has prevented horse slaughter plants in the US from operating, and any new facilities from opening. Rep. Moran and Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) spoke strongly in favor of the amendment, noting that now is not the time to start spending tax dollars to prop up an industry owned and propelled by foreign interests, and one that is responsible for the suffering of American horses. The amendment became necessary after the language was omitted from the appropriations bill originally approved by the House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee. As in prior years, AWI will work to ensure that this provision is protected as the bill moves through Congress.