Humane Society Legislative Fund (HSLF) is a social welfare organization incorporated under section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code. HSLF works to pass animal protection laws at the state and federal level, to educate the public about animal protection issues, and to support humane candidates for office.  Review our Frequently Asked Questions here.

Most animal protection organizations are non-profit charities and, as such, are limited in their lobbying work. Even if you combine their spending on public policy lobbying, you’d find that the total is miniscule compared to that of our opponents. The NRA, for example, spends tens of millions of dollars each year on lobbying and political activity. Our other political opponents—including the American Farm Bureau, the National Pork Producers Council, Safari Club International, and Ringling Bros.—have huge war chests. We are at a distinct and often overwhelming disadvantage when we attempt to push sweeping and meaningful reforms.

HSLF was formed in 2004 as a separate lobbying affiliate of The Humane Society of the United States. As a 501(c)(4) lobbying organization, HSLF can engage in more public policy work, build an army of trained activists, and compete with other groups that have long been operating at a different level. HSLF may not be able to match its opponents dollar for dollar, but it will be more aggressive and more effective. That means more lobbyists at the state and federal levels, more ballot initiatives, and more victories for animals.

HSLF publishes the Humane Scorecard, which tracks the voting records of members of Congress, as well as a Voter Guide, which makes recommendations for supporting humane candidates. We also publish HumaneLines, a free electronic newsletter with news and action alerts. Please join HSLF as we take our legislative activity to a whole new level and push forward a wide range of reforms for animals. It’s time to get political for animals.



HSLF INTERNSHIPS AVAILABLE

The Humane Society Legislative Fund (HSLF) seeks 3 interns for the 2008 Summer and Fall sessions. The HSLF is a separate lobbying affiliate of The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), which seeks to pass humane laws. As a 501(c)(4), HSLF also engages in political activity and works to elect humane lawmakers. This is an excellent opportunity for students with a background or major in political science, law, or online communication and web design.

HSLF seeks 2 interns to assist our staff with a number of tasks, ranging from political research and fundraising event support to legislation and general administration work. HSLF seeks a 3rd intern to assist our Online Producer with web content as well as public relations activity. This internship requires experience in one or both of these areas. Students of all backgrounds, and with an interest in animal protection, are encouraged to apply. Interns may work full-time or part-time and can arrange to receive course credit. As this is a major election year, superior candidates will demonstrate flexibility and an aptitude for working in a fast-paced environment, as well as a willingness to take on a variety of projects with minimal supervision. Strong writing skills are also needed.

Please submit a resume and cover letter, stating why you wish to become an advocate for animals, as well as your internship preference (general or online production) to Ms. Colleen Crinion at ccrinion@hslf.org. These positions are located in our Capitol Hill office.