Source: Various

It has been reported that the governor has signed the horse protection bill (H.B.765/S.B. 1708) passed by the Florida Legislature.  The bill makes it a felony to kill or maim a horse or to transport or sell horse meat that has not been obtained from a licensed slaughterhouse. 

The legislation was enacted to address the series of horse thefts, killings, and mutilations that took place in the Miami-Dade and Broward counties in 2009.  Over 20 horses were stolen and brutally slaughtered.  One suspect was arrested and investigations continue to identify those responsible for other attacks.  

Horse meat is eaten in several countries in Europe and Japan and there was also a black market for it in the Miami area.  

The law will take effect July 1.  Anyone convicted under the law will be subject to fines and  jail time.