The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act last week.

The measure strengthens laws dealing with criminal acts against farms, meat processors, animal research facilities and other animal enterprises.

The Animal Agriculture Alliance said in a news release, “The Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act closes loopholes in the previous act by penalizing attacks against tertiary targets. It also addresses key concerns of law enforcement who have waged an uphill battle to prevent, investigate and prosecute acts of animal rights terrorism.”

The Arlington, Va.-based group also says it is “thrilled at the legislature's recognition that the dedicated people who devote their lives to providing food for the nation deserve the protection that this law provides.”

The Senate passed the measure in September. President Bush is expected to sign it into law.