Rep. Titus Introduces the AVERT Future Violence Act

Rep. Titus Introduces the AVERT Future Violence Act

Washington, DC - Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-01) reintroduced the Animal Violence Exposes Real Threat of (AVERT) Future Violence Act. This legislation is co-led by Representatives Vern Buchanan (R-FL) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA). Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Thom Tillis (R-NC).

"Animal abusers have a significantly higher likelihood of committing acts of interpersonal violence," said Congresswoman Titus. "Despite this, animal abuse continues to be treated as an isolated act rather than an indicator of violent behavior. By collecting data to study the link between animal and domestic abuse, we will be able to make informed legislative decisions that improve public safety, decrease incidents of domestic violence, and protect animals."

"Not surprisingly, deranged individuals who abuse innocent animals are significantly more likely to go on to commit violence against people," said Congressman Buchanan. "In fact, studies have shown that nearly 40 percent of known animal abusers commit crimes against humans as well. I'm pleased to lead efforts with Congresswoman Titus to study the troubling connection between domestic abusers and animal violence."

"There is a clear connection between animal abuse and interpersonal violence, but more research is needed to help our communities effectively prevent and respond to red flags when we see them," said Senator Peters. "This commonsense, bipartisan bill would improve our understanding of how a history of animal abuse can lead to future violence, while directing needed federal resources to the local partners who work to protect our communities each and every day."

"Acts of animal cruelty are often a warning sign of future violence, and we should treat them with the seriousness they deserve," said Senator Tillis. "This bipartisan legislation will help law enforcement, mental health professionals, and local communities better identify threats early, intervene effectively, and prevent future acts of violence before they happen."

Background
The bipartisan Animal Violence Exposes Real Threat of (AVERT) Future Violence Act of 2026 would:

1. Commission a definitive study within the Department of Justice to assess the link between acts of animal cruelty and violence against others, developing effective interventions for offenders convicted of animal cruelty to prevent their future participation in domestic abuse.

2. Require that the National Institute of Justice to submit a report to Congress detailing the findings of the study and offering evidence-informed policy recommendations; and

3. Authorize a $2 million annual grant program to support mental health experts, law enforcement, and animal welfare organizations in their efforts to stop animal cruelty and rehabilitate offenders.

Individuals who commit animal abuse are far more likely to commit crimes than non-animal abusers. Studies show that 70% of convicted animal abusers have committed another crime, with nearly 40% having committed violent crimes against people. To better understand this link, the Federal Bureau of Investigation began collecting data in 2016 through the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) specifically on animal abuse.

The AVERT Future Violence Act is endorsed by the Animal Welfare Institute, Humane World Action Fund, and Humane World for Animals.

Congresswoman Titus has been a lifelong advocate for animal protection, earning a 100% rating from the Humane World Action Fund on their 2025 Humane Scorecard. She has led efforts to stop government agencies from wasting taxpayer dollars on inhumane animal experiments and introduced legislation to ensure animals are rescued and cared for during emergencies and natural disasters.

The full bill text can be found HERE.

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