Lawmakers honored at annual Humane Awards for advancing animal protection across party lines in Congress

WASHINGTON (April 3, 2025)—Humane World Action Fund (formerly called Humane Society Legislative Fund) proudly recognized 247 members of Congress for their leadership and commitment to animal protection as part of the annual Humane Awards celebration held on April 2. The event celebrated lawmakers from across 41 states, the District of Columbia, Guam and other U.S. territories for their bipartisan efforts to improve the lives of animals through federal policy in 2024.

Fifty-eight senators and 189 representatives received honors for their strong commitment to animal protection and leadership on key federal efforts supported by Humane World Action Fund. The full list of awardees is here.

The awards are presented to those who received high scores on Humane World Action Fund’s 2024 Humane Scorecard and cover three categories:

  • Humane Champions: Members of Congress who consistently supported pro-animal measures and played a leading role in advancing legislative or regulatory reforms.
  • Humane Advocates: Lawmakers who demonstrated unwavering support for animal welfare through their actions and votes throughout the year.
  • Legislative Leaders: Members who took the lead on introducing or championing impactful legislation or regulatory efforts that moved the cause of animal protection forward.

“Humane Award recipients reflect the growing public demand for stronger animal protection. We are proud to honor the lawmakers who stepped up to lead with compassion and across party lines. These members of Congress are acting not out of partisanship, but principle, showing that compassion for animals is a cause that unites,” said Sara Amundson, president of Humane World Action Fund.

In the second session of the 118th Congress (January 3, 2023, through January 3, 2025), Humane Award honorees helped secure bipartisan support for priority animal protection bills and worked to defeat harmful measures such as the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression (EATS) Act. Many also played critical roles in defending laws like the Endangered Species Act from repeated attacks.

As the 119th Congress gets underway, Humane World Action Fund will continue building on this bipartisan foundation, collaborating with allies in both chambers to advance policies that reflect the compassion of the American people.

Humane World Action Fund has been hosting the Humane Awards since 2005. The annual reception is a fun opportunity to express appreciation for the many legislators who advance animal protection in Congress.

Read more about the event on Humane World Action Fund blog.

Media Contact: Liz Bartolomeo: 240-472-0475, lbartolomeo@humaneaction.org