WASHINGTON D.C.—Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Bring Animals Relief and Kibble (BARK) Act, legislation introduced by Representatives Young Kim (CA-40) and Jamie Raskin (MD-08), as part of the FY2027 Agriculture Appropriations Act.
The BARK Act aims to end food shortages facing animal shelters and reduce the millions of pounds of wasted pet food and supplies sitting in landfills by providing donor liability protections to businesses that provide charitable donations of food and pet supplies to shelters.
“Many animal shelters face food and supply shortages while over a million pounds of useable pet supplies are wasted each year. The BARK Act will help reduce this waste, supply shelters in need, and feed animals,” said Rep. Kim. “I am happy to see this commonsense legislation pass the House of Representatives.”
The Pet Food Institute, representing U.S. pet food manufacturers, expressed strong support for the measure.
Organizations supporting the BARK Act include: American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Humane World Action Fund, Humane World for Animals, Human Society, Inc., Best Friends Animal Society
Inspired by a constituent’s concern over waste in local pet stores, the bill could help redirect millions of pounds of usable pet food to nonprofit shelters and rescue organizations.
