Activists Sue Feds for Allowing Horse Slaughter for Food

"Neigh!" They say.

The federal government's "nationwide program of horse slaughter" threatens the environment and public health, the Humane Society and others claim in court.

Lead plaintiff Front Range Equine Rescue et al. sued Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and two of his top assistants, in Federal Court.

"Defendants are embarking on a nationwide program of horse slaughter that presents clear threats to the environment without complying with congressionally mandated requirements intended to protect the public and our natural resources," the complaint states.

It continues: "The slaughter of American horses for human consumption presents unique and extensive dangers that have never been adequately considered by defendants, despite their obligations under NEPA [the National Environmental Policy Act].