As always when you address an issue as controversial as horse slaughter for human consumption it draws out opposition, most particularly those with a financial interest in keeping things as they are.

Many, including legislators, did not know that horses were sent to and through Maine for slaughter in Quebec, Canada. That increased awareness drew considerable support for L.D. 1075 "An Act to Prohibit the Slaughter of Horses for Human Consumption."

We initially thought we had reached a compromise with the opposition, but they then decided to oppose the bill. The harness racing industry, Farm Bureau, the Governor's office and those not completely informed or misinformed have made the passage of L.D. 1075 significantly more difficult. We simply do not have the resources they do to work the bill.

In light of a likely highly contentious hearing and politicking on both sides a compromise was reached in which the bill will be brought back next session. This will allow the two sides to meet over the summer and fall to see if solutions can be worked out and report back to the Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry next winter.

Maine Friends of Animals and the Maine Harness Racing Industry had originally talked about addressing unwanted horses and slaughter separately from legislation. To that end we will genuinely work with the opponents of the bill and all interested stakeholders for a solution on the issues involving unwanted horses in Maine, and particularly the issue of horse slaughter for human consumption.

This carry over to the next session will allow us to put through a cleaner and more acceptable bill, give us time to work on additional solutions, and use what we have learned about the issues of our opponents.

MFOA will keep you posted on the progress.  In the meantime keep your Fact Sheet on file.

MFOA would like to thank the many who have volunteered time to help us in this legislative effort thus far. A special thank you to Rep. Gary Knight of Livermore Falls, our sponsor, who was fearless in his support of L.D. 1075 and committed to the issue. Animal protectors have a friend in Rep. Knight. It saddens us that this inhumane practice will continue for now, but awareness and education are always the first steps to successful legislation.

Please take a moment to read the Bangor Daily News article:
Opposition brings proposed horse slaughter ban to halt.