Why It Matters
The Humane World Action Fund is doubling down on federal animal welfare advocacy during a rare window of opportunity. Congress is actively considering bills to end animal testing, improve farm animal welfare, and strengthen companion animal protections. The challenge: translating bipartisan congressional interest into signed legislation while countering agriculture industry efforts to block state-level protections through federal preemption bills. Recent regulatory shifts from the FDA moving away from mandatory animal testing validate HWAF’s core agenda and could embolden lawmakers to act.
By the Numbers
Humane World Action Fund spent $180,000 on in-house lobbying in teh fourth quarter of 2025, continuing its reliance on internal advocacy. The organization has reported approximately $11.2 million in total lobbying expenditures since 2008, with in-house efforts accounting for $8.49 million across 58 filings.
The organization maintains its core lobbying team while selectively engaging external firms for specialized expertise. Recent engagements include Relation Strategy LLC for appropriations work and Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, which has received $1.35 million since 2017.
The Agenda
HWAF’s consistent priorities include: ending animal testing, protecting horses, improving farm animal welfare, and strengthening companion animal protections.
Recent congressional activity suggests HWAF’s fourth quarter spending targeted active bills including the SPARE Act to prohibit animals in federally funded research, the HEARTS Act requiring NIH to prioritize non-animal research, and the Humane Cosmetics Act banning cosmetics testing on animals. The PIGS Act targets gestation stalls, while the Puppy Protection Act strengthens breeding facility standards.
Broader Context
The 119th Congress is actively considering multiple animal welfare bills aligned with HWAF’s priorities. Congressional committees have held recent hearings on animal cruelty and research ethics, while members like Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) and Rep. Ken Calvert (R-CA-41) championing animal protection measures.
The FDA announced plans in April 2025 to phase out mandatory animal testing for drug development, with regulatory agencies increasingly validating alternatives. Meanwhile, emerging threats loom from agricultural preemption legislation like the Food Security and Farm Protection Act, which would nullify state-level animal protection laws.
Between The Lines
Congress is advancing animal welfare legislation across multiple fronts, creating dynamic opportunities for advocacy groups. The most significant push centers on ending animal testing through the SPARE Act, HEARTS Act, and Humane Cosmetics Act.
Bipartisan leadership is emerging. Rep. Ken Calvert (R-CA-41) and Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH-1) lead the HEARTS Act, while Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) drives both the Prevent All Soring Tactics Act and Puppy Protection Act.
Competitive Landscape
HWAF operates within a robust coalition of animal welfare organizations. Animal Wellness Action and Cruelty Free International filed 2025 disclosures showing similar lobbying on overlapping legislation.
Organizations like the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine and White Coat Waste Project serve as key allies, testifying before Congress and amplifying calls for reform on shared animal protection agendas.
The Bottom Line
HWAF’s $180,000 fourth quarter spending continues its long-term advocacy strategy amid favorable legislative momentum. With bipartisan support building for legislation like the SPARE Act and HEARTS Act, combined with FDA moves to phase out mandatory animal testing, HWAF’s sustained investment reflects strategic positioning to capitalize on this legislative window.
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