The Senate passed on Monday a draft law that provides for the prohibition of the organization, holding or promotion of contests, shows or public demonstrations that involve forcing animals to pull, transport or move loads disproportionate to their natural capacity.

There were 84 votes ‘in favor’ and 26 abstentions.

The normative act amends and supplements in this regard Law no. 205/2004 on animal protection.

„The organization, holding or promotion of contests, shows or public demonstrations that involve forcing animals to pull, transport or move loads disproportionate to their natural capacity, for recreational, competitive, demonstrative or traditional purposes is prohibited,” the draft law states. Failure to comply with these provisions twice, resulting in the death of the animal, will constitute a crime and will be punished with imprisonment from 6 months to 3 years or a fine.

The normative act also provides that any activity that causes suffering, stress, exhaustion or bodily harm to the animal is considered excessive effort, regardless of its duration or intensity.

Local, religious or cultural traditions cannot be invoked as justification for carrying out such activities.

The draft also provides that local authorities and organizing institutions have the obligation to request the approval of the National Veterinary Sanitary and Food Safety Authority for any event involving the use of animals, and the lack of approval will result in the event being null and void.

The Romanian Broadcasting Corporation will promote animal protection programs, and the Ministry of National Education will promote such actions within civic education classes.

The Senate is the first chamber notified. The Chamber of Deputies is the decision-maker. AGERPRES