S.1939 - Bring Animals Relief and Kibble Act of 2025; BARK Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1939, the Bring Animals Relief and Kibble Act of 2025 (BARK Act), aims to protect individuals and organizations from liability when donating pet food and supplies in good faith to nonprofits or government entities for distribution to qualified animals (pets, emotional support animals, and service animals). The bill defines key terms such as 'apparently fit pet-related product' and references the Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act for definitions of 'donate,' 'gross negligence,' and other relevant terms.
The Act specifies that donors, nonprofit organizations, and state/local governments are not liable for the condition of donated pet-related products unless gross negligence or intentional misconduct is involved. It also addresses partial compliance, where donors inform recipients of distressed or defective conditions, allowing for reconditioning of the products.
The bill intends to encourage donations of pet food and supplies by reducing the risk of liability, thereby supporting animal welfare.
Expected Effects
The BARK Act will likely increase the amount of pet food and supplies donated to animal shelters and other organizations that care for animals. This will reduce the financial burden on these organizations and improve the well-being of the animals they serve. It may also reduce waste by allowing for the donation of products that might otherwise be discarded.
Potential Benefits 4/5
- Increased donations of pet food and supplies to animal shelters and rescues.
- Reduced financial strain on organizations caring for animals.
- Improved well-being of pets, emotional support animals, and service animals.
- Potential reduction in waste of usable pet-related products.
- Encourages good faith donations by providing liability protection.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for distribution of unsafe or unsuitable pet products if reconditioning is inadequate.
- Risk of increased burden on recipient organizations to inspect and recondition donated items.
- Possible legal challenges related to the definition of 'gross negligence' or 'intentional misconduct'.
- Limited impact if donations are already robust without liability protection.
- Could create a loophole for irresponsible manufacturers to donate substandard products.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment 4/5
The BARK Act appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution's preamble, as it aims to improve the well-being of animals and support organizations that care for them. It does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or provisions. The Act falls under the legislative powers granted to Congress under Article I, Section 8, which includes the power to regulate commerce and provide for the general welfare.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to citizens. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).