The Animal Rights Protection and Defense Bill is close to its final vote in the National Assembly, but the Biodiversity Commission has not yet called a session. President Camila León (ADN) has until June 8 to present the final text with the observations from the second legislative debate.
This regulation has been under discussion for three years, and its process was interrupted by the change in the legislative period. Although the text was improved after the debates, sectors such as the Citizen Revolution have insisted on filing it away, arguing alleged permissiveness such as zoophilia or animal abuse for experimental purposes.
ADN and the Social Christian Party have defended the law, highlighting its clarity in prohibiting harmful practices and the inclusion of cultural exceptions based on popular consultations and the current legal framework. Rumors about setbacks in rights have been based on distortions of the content, according to the sponsors.
The bill originated by mandate of the Constitutional Court, but it was adjusted so as not to affect traditional activities or harm productive sectors. The seventh general provision excludes events such as horseback rides or Montubio rodeos, in accordance with the 2011 citizen mandate and the Environmental Code.
