Analyst Brief March 03, 2026

H.R. 4638 — BOWOW Act of 2025

Current Status
Reported with an amendment

Executive Summary

H.R. 4638 amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to deem aliens convicted of harming animals used in law enforcement as inadmissible and deportable. This bill responds to concerns about animal rights and the safety of law enforcement animals. The bill has been reported with an amendment and committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union. This bill aims to strengthen protections for law enforcement animals and ensure that individuals who harm them face serious consequences under U.S. immigration law.

Bill Data

Primary Sponsor
Mr. Calvert (R-CA)
Bill Number
H. R. 4638
Co-Sponsors
Ms. Tenney, Mr. Tiffany, Mr. Webster, Mr. McClintock, Mr. Steube, Mr. Owens

Arguments For

  • Argument 1: Appeals to law and order sentiments, framing the issue as protecting law enforcement assets.
  • Argument 2: Provides a clear and easily understandable policy position, which can be a political win with certain voter segments.
Likely Supporters
RepublicansLaw Enforcement AssociationsAnimal Welfare Organizations (Conservative)

Arguments Against

  • Argument 1: May be criticized as overly punitive, especially by groups concerned with immigration reform and animal rights.
  • Argument 2: Could be seen as a symbolic gesture that does not address broader issues within immigration law or animal welfare.
Likely Opponents
DemocratsImmigration Advocacy GroupsProgressive Animal Rights Organizations

📋 Key Provisions

  • Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to include harming law enforcement animals as grounds for inadmissibility.
  • Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to include harming law enforcement animals as grounds for deportation.

🔍 Verification Guide

BETA
Claim Analysis Page 3, Line 14

Conviction of harming law enforcement animals makes an alien inadmissible.

Verify Text

"Any alien who has been convicted"

Claim Analysis Page 3, Line 24

Conviction of harming law enforcement animals makes an alien deportable.

Verify Text

"Any alien who has been convicted"

Claim Analysis Page 3, Line 17

The bill references section 1368 of title 18, United States Code.

Verify Text

"offense under section 1368 of title"

Generated by The Capitol Wire AI • Verification Required

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