Story perspectives

House Passes Controversial BOWOW Act Amid Immigration Debate

3/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

On March 19, 2026, the U.S. House passed the BOWOW Act, allowing deportation of noncitizens harming police animals.
Rep. Ken Calvert (R-Calif.) introduced the bill.
The bill passed 228-190 with support from 15 Democrats.
Critics, including Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), say the measure distracts from issues like the war in Iran.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed skepticism about the White House's recent immigration proposals and called for serious negotiations.

History

Historical Context

The 2016 enactment of the Animal Welfare Act in the U.S. marked a significant step in recognizing animal rights, coinciding with over 1,000 reported animal cruelty cases that year. The recent introduction of the BOWOW Act by Rep. Ken Calvert aims to further protect police animals, reflecting ongoing legislative efforts while critics caution that such measures may distract from urgent issues like the war in Iran.

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Story summary

On March 19, 2026, the U.S. House passed the BOWOW Act, allowing deportation of noncitizens harming police animals.
Rep. Ken Calvert (R-Calif.) introduced the bill.
The bill passed 228-190 with support from 15 Democrats.
Critics, including Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), say the measure distracts from issues like the war in Iran.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed skepticism about the White House's recent immigration proposals and called for serious negotiations.

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