USA
28-Hour Law
Summary Description
Limits maximum duration of journey time for live animals and provides minimum animal welfare standards during the transport of live animals.
Topics
Species
Farmed animals
Jurisdiction
USA
Sub-Jurisdiction
N/A
Type of Act
Legislation
Status
In force
Legal Value
Binding
Date Enacted
2006
Date Updated
June, 2023
Official Citation
United States Code, 2006 Edition, Supplement 2, Title 49 - TRANSPORTATION (49 USC 80502) (U.S.A.)
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- Prohibits the transportation of animals by "rail carrier, express carrier or common carrier" (except by air or water) for more than 28 consecutive hours without being unloaded for five hours for rest, water and food."
- Sets general requirements to feed and water animals.
Weaknesses
- Provides a general exemption for vehicles or vessels equipped with on-board feeding and watering systems.
- Provides a general extension to 36 hours and special extensions for certain species under certain circumstances (i.e.: sheep may be transported for another 8 hours when the end of the 28 consecutive hour period ends at night).
- Establishes civil penalty for violations of the statute but such a penalty is limited to a total amount of $500).
Related Laws/Policies
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