Brazil Advances Animal Protection with New State and National Legislation

On October 23, 2026, Brazil marked significant progress in animal protection through two legislative initiatives focused on enhancing animal welfare across different contexts. In the state of Sergipe, Law No. 10.015 was enacted, establishing the State Policy for Animal Assisted Interventions. This law promotes health, education, and social inclusion by facilitating planned and safe human-animal interactions via four intervention types: Animal Assisted Therapy (TAA), Activities (AAA), Education (EAA), and Visitation (VAA). These interventions operate in hospitals, schools, social services, and other institutions, requiring proper authorization, participant consent, and adherence to health and ethical protocols. The law also mandates animal welfare standards, including vaccination and behavioral criteria, and encourages partnerships with educational and research institutions for training and scientific development.

At the national level, Deputy Célio Studart introduced Project of Law 3232/26, proposing a National Policy for Remote Aerial Surveillance to combat animal mistreatment. This pioneering initiative promotes the use of drones equipped with optical, thermal, and acoustic sensors, alongside artificial intelligence, to monitor and prevent abuse, especially in remote areas. The project supports training public agents in drone operation and data handling, fostering inter-agency collaboration among environmental, security, and animal protection bodies. Highlighting the inefficiency of traditional inspections, Studart views aerial surveillance as a cost-effective and safer tool to enhance oversight. The bill is currently progressing through key legislative committees and awaits Senate approval.

Together, these legislative moves illustrate Brazil's commitment to advancing animal welfare through innovative, multi-level policies that bridge health, education, technology, and law enforcement.