Poland: Proposed Amendment to Animal Protection Rules in Poland

On March 22, 2023, the Polish Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development proposed a draft Act on Special Arrangements to Improve the Supervision over Animal Health and Protection. The proposed legislation introduces several solutions on the protection, maintenance, treatment, and movement of animals. The clarification of regulations on the emergency seizure of animals by animal protection organizations is one of the key elements of the draft. The proposed legislation allows non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to collect farm animals in urgent situations, including when an animal’s health and welfare is compromised, and for the competent authorities to be notified immediately. Also, the Amendment proposes improving slaughterhouse supervision, facilitating pig movement, and registering poultry farms.