Congresswoman Nancy Mace has introduced the Illegal Alien Animal Abuser Removal Act of 2026. The proposed legislation would make undocumented immigrants convicted of animal cruelty or animal fighting offenses inadmissible to the United States and subject to immediate deportation.
“If you come here illegally, you’re already a criminal. Add animal cruelty to the list and you’re on the next flight back to where you came from,” said Congresswoman Mace. “We have a duty to protect the voiceless from torture and abuse. Animal cruelty is a proven red flag for violence against people. These criminals escalate. Our bill makes it crystal clear: commit these sick acts and you’re deported. Immediately. No second chances.”
The bill proposes that any undocumented immigrant convicted under federal, state, tribal, or local law for animal cruelty or animal fighting would be permanently barred from entering the United States and immediately deported if already present in the country. The measure applies to both misdemeanor and felony convictions.
Animal cruelty has been identified by the FBI as an indicator of potential violent behavior, including domestic violence and child abuse.
“The message is clear: abuse animals, get deported. America will not be a sanctuary for animal abusers, especially ones who broke into our country illegally in the first place. Pack your bags,” Mace added.
Nancy Mace currently represents South Carolina’s 1st district in Congress after replacing Joe Cunningham in 2021. She previously served in the South Carolina House of Representatives from 2018 to 2020 and graduated from The Citadel with a BS degree in 1999. Born in Fort Bragg, North Carolina in 1977, she now resides in Charleston.
