House passes bill that would deport noncitizens for harming police animals

The House passed the Bill to Outlaw Wounding of Official Working Animals (BOWOW) Act on Thursday, legislation that would make noncitizens and foreign nationals subject to deportation if convicted of or admitting to harming police animals. The bill treats harm to law enforcement animals—such as K-9 units used in drug detection and suspect apprehension—as grounds for inadmissibility and removal from the U.S. The measure reflects growing focus on protecting working animals that serve in law enforcement operations across the country. The legislation now moves to the Senate for consideration. Supporters argue the law strengthens protections for animals that face risks in their official duties.