The Washington-based Humane Society of the United States is expanding lobbying operations in all 50 states and to 70 countries as it shifts focus to promoting a “humane economy” that embraces animal welfare.
President Wayne Pacelle told the Washington Examiner that recent victories have propelled the expansion.
“We are making enormous progress in the domains of animal welfare, as it relates to food and agriculture, entertainment and animal testing” he said. “It’s time to step on the gas and drive even bigger changes throughout society, and that’s exactly what we plan to do.”
Key goals include having representatives in 70 countries, up from 50, and state councils in all 50 states and “leaders” in all 435 congressional districts.
“I want to press the case,” said Pacelle, whose new book, “The Humane Economy,” will be released in March.
It won’t stop the critics, however, especially HumaneWatch.org, out with a new brochure that accuses the Humane Society of “deceptive fundraising practices.” The arm of the Center for Consumer Freedom charges that the Humane Society indicates it raises money for local pet shelters, but spends most lobbying for animal rights. It is a charge echoed by Humane Society targets such as the National Pork Producers Council.
Paul Bedard, the Washington Examiner’s “Washington Secrets” columnist, can be contacted at [email protected].
