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GAO-26-108123 1 (June 4, 2026)

handle is hein.gao/anmtrspt0001 and id is 1 raw text is: Why This Matters Hundreds of millions of livestock animals, such as cattle, goats, horses, mules, pigs, and sheep, are transported each year, primarily by truck (see fig. 1). These trips occur for various purposes, such as slaughter, auctions, shows, breeding, and fattening. Transport of livestock animals can cover thousands of miles, potentially exposing these animals to overcrowding, extreme temperatures, limited ventilation, and a lack of access to water or food. If not managed properly, these conditions can lead to injury, illness, or death. Source: M Perfecttistock.adobe.com I GAO-26-108123 In 1873, Congress passed the original version of the Twenty-Eight Hour law. Then and now, the law generally prohibits the confinement of animals in interstate transport for more than 28 consecutive hours without humanely unloading them for feeding, water, and rest, with certain exceptions. The law was subsequently both repealed and reenacted in 1906 and 1994. Under this law, the Department of Justice (DOJ) is responsible for pursuing civil penalties for violations. Under separate authorities, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulates certain aspects of livestock animal health, and the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulates motor carrier safety. Page 1 GAO-26-108123 Animal Transport Page 1 GAO-26-108123 Animal Transport