South Iowa News

Representative Zach Nunn of Iowa's 3rd District has partnered with Representative Salud Carbajal of California to introduce the Greyhound Protection Act, a bipartisan bill aiming to permanently ban greyhound racing across the United States. The proposed legislation would also make it illegal to gamble on live and simulcast greyhound races and would prohibit the export of American greyhounds for racing abroad.

“Greyhound racing is a cruel and inhumane practice that has no place anywhere in this country,” said Rep. Nunn. “Iowa shut down its last greyhound track because our communities recognized the cruelty behind this industry. This bill follows Iowa’s lead, ensuring man’s best friend is treated with the care and respect every dog deserves.”

The press release notes that greyhounds involved in racing often face harsh conditions, including spending up to 23 hours daily in cages, suffering injuries—sometimes fatal—during races, and being exposed to performance-enhancing drugs. While most states have already banned greyhound racing, supporters of the new legislation argue that a federal law is necessary to close existing loopholes.

Once a multibillion-dollar industry, U.S. betting on greyhound races reached $3.5 billion at its peak in 1991 but has declined sharply to $8.5 million today. However, international markets remain significant due to online betting platforms and continued operations in countries such as Australia, the United Kingdom, and Ireland.

“Greyhound racing is cruel, inhumane, and unpopular with the American public – which is why nearly every state has already voted to outlaw it,” said Rep. Carbajal. “As a member of the Animal Protection Caucus, I’m proud to stand with colleagues from both sides of the aisle to reintroduce bipartisan legislation that will finally put an end to this brutal practice and promote the universal welfare of our greyhounds.”

Tom Colvin, president of the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, added: “Iowa rightly got out of the business of dog racing, and that’s a good thing because the number of dogs injured on tracks in our state was eye-popping,” he said. “I’m grateful to Congressman Nunn for working to make it a national policy to treat greyhounds well and to stop wagering on races that put dogs at needless risk of catastrophic injury.”

According to proponents, these reforms are intended not only to end what they describe as an abusive industry but also hold those responsible accountable while reflecting values associated with humane treatment.

The full text of the bill can be found here.