Barbara Cubin: “I would like to make this very clear: if you believe in the humane treatment of animals, this bill takes us a step…”

“I would like to make this very clear: if you believe in the humane treatment of animals, this bill takes us a step backwards. If you believe in preserving a balanced and natural ecosystem, this bill moves us in the wrong direction. If you believe in personal property rights, this bill represents an outright assault on that uniquely American ideal. There are many who will come before the House today and will say that Americans are thoughtlessly slaughtering young, strong horses--symbols of the American West--and that there can be no good reason for this slaughter. I am here today to tell you that this is not the case. In my home State of Wyoming, we proudly display a bucking bronco as a symbol of our Western heritage. In fact, one of the first memories of my life is sitting on the back of a horse. I love horses as much as anyone here, and just like the proponents of this bill, I do not want to see these animals suffer. But I rise today to say that if enacted, this legislation would create more suffering for both horse and human. By opposing this bill, we are not striking out at symbols of the American West. In fact, we are making a responsible herd management decision that protects horses, humans, and the ecosystem. Many of these horses are old, ill, starving due to overpopulation, or they have otherwise ceased in their proper function. But you don't need to take my word for it.…”