Washington, D.C. - On behalf of its nearly 500,000 supporters in New Jersey and 11 million supporters nationwide, the Humane Society of the United States, together with its affiliate, the Humane Society Legislative Fund, presented the Humane Champion award to U.S. Senator Robert Menendez, for his leadership on animal protection legislation in 2012.

"Senator Menendez has been a committed leader on humane legislation in the U.S. Congress," said Wayne Pacelle, President and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States. "He has made it a priority to tackle cruelty and cultivate constructive solutions to improve the lives of animals. His dedication to advocating on behalf of animals speaks volumes about his character."

"As someone who believes it is imperative that we treat all animals in a humane way, I am proud to again receive this award for my work on animal welfare, including my fight to require airlines to accurately report incidents of animal injury or death," said Sen. Menendez, who was previously honored as a Humane Champion in 2008 and 2009. "I have made sure to stand up for animal welfare laws and I will continue fighting for the welfare of our beloved family pets and other animals that cannot advocate for themselves."

Sen. Menendez was one of only three U.S. Senators to receive the Humane Champion award for earning a perfect score on the 2012 Humane Scorecard. He was also honored for his leadership on safe air travel for animals by supporting the expansion of airline reporting requirements for animals that are transported on commercial flights and steadfastly opposing puppy mills and animal fighting.

"Animal protection issues continue to bring Members of Congress together across party lines, and have the strong support of mainstream Americans," said HSLF President Michael Markarian. "We thank Senator Menendez for his outstanding work to ensure that our federal laws reflect the core humane values and attitudes of American society."

Every year, the Humane Society Legislative Fund compiles a federal Humane Scorecard to provide a snapshot of animal protection issues considered by the U.S. Congress and gives animal advocates a tool to assess the performance of their Senators and Representatives. The scorecard tracks key votes as well as support for important pro-animal bills and an annual letter seeking funds needed to enforce key animal welfare laws.

For 2012, Senate ratings included votes on agribusiness subsidies, animal fighting and a pro-hunting package with several harmful wildlife provisions, and co-sponsorship of priority bills on eggs and hen housing, chimpanzees warehoused in laboratories and puppy mills.

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