Christopher Shays: “on June 29, 2006, the Friends of Animals Caucus held a groundbreaking event on farm animal welfare. Members of the…”

“on June 29, 2006, the Friends of Animals Caucus held a groundbreaking event on farm animal welfare. Members of the caucus were joined by a distinguished and diverse panel of speakers: representatives of three major animal protection organizations, a noted legal scholar, a family farmer, and representatives of the religious and environmental communities. The way a society treats its animals speaks to the core values and priorities of its citizens. Peter DeFazio and I recently introduced legislation, H.R. 5557, the Farm Animal Stewardship Act, which we hope will lead to more humane treatment of farm animals raised for consumption. Additionally, I am developing bills to address the issues of labeling and animal cruelty that exists in America. Some species have become our companions, some play important roles in sensitive ecosystems, and some are raised for food. It is our duty to protect and care for all of these animals. Matthew Scully, former special assistant and deputy director of speechwriting to President George W. Bush, was unable to attend, but he submitted his article ``Fear Factories: The Case for Compassionate Conservatism--for Animals,'' which was published in the May 23, 2005, issue of the American Conservative. He asked that it be included as a summary of his views on this subject. Before ending my comments, let me highlight some of the views expressed by Matthew Scully because it expresses what I believe. Mr. Scully states: `` . . .…”