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May 19, 2026


Dr. Gary Michelson Op-Ed: The City Kills Thousands of Shelter Animals While Defunding Solutions.

&

Latest Because They Need Us Podcast with Australian Member of Parliament,

Emma Hurst!

Last week we sent out a "call to action" regarding proposed budget cuts to LA Animal Services. Long time animal advocate, supporter of SCIL, and Founder of Michelson Found Animals, Dr. Gary Michelson, wrote a spot-on op-ed on the short-sighted cuts in the latest issue the Westside Current.


Thankfully, last Friday the Budget and Finance Committee voted to reinstate some of the proposed cuts, but it is not final until the full L.A. City Council approves the final budget.


Click HERE or the picture above to read the Op-Ed.

Inside the Kangaroo Industry featuring Emma Hurst | Because They Need Us | Episode 8 | Part 1

In Part 1 of Episode 8 of the Because They Need Us Podcast, Social Compassion in Legislation's Judie Mancuso & Nick Sackett are joined by Emma Hurst to expose the harsh realities of Australia’s commercial kangaroo industry and the international fight to stop its expansion. Emma shares how the Animal Justice Party has worked to oppose kangaroo slaughter practices, challenge misleading population estimates, and protect one of Australia’s most iconic native species.


About Emma Hurst


Emma Hurst is an Australian Member of Parliament representing New South Wales and a leading voice for animal protection through the Animal Justice Party. Since entering office, she has championed legislation and investigations focused on wildlife protection, factory farming, companion animal welfare, and ending cruel commercial animal industries. Her work has made her one of Australia’s most recognized political advocates for animals and ethical reform.


In this Episode


The episode explores the cruelty of kangaroo hunting, including the killing of joeys, concerns over public health risks tied to kangaroo meat, and the devastating impact commercial exploitation has on wildlife populations. Judie, Emma, and Nick discuss the successful campaign to defeat California’s SB1212, a bill that would have reopened California’s market to kangaroo products, highlighting the power of international collaboration, grassroots advocacy, and behind-the-scenes legislative action to protect animals.

Reminder!

AB 2344 will be voted on by the full Assembly as soon as this Thursday!


If you haven't called your Assemblymember, please do so!


FIND YOUR ASSEMBLYMEMBER HERE


Call your Assemblymember and ask that they VOTE YES on AB 2344!

Click below to access all of the

BECAUSE THEY NEED US episodes!

Lastly, 2026 has been a horrible year for fundraising. We need your donations to exist! We know you appreciate our work, but it cannot be done without your financial support. Please consider donating today!

 

With tons of gratitude, Judie

Judie Mancuso, founder/CEO/president

Social Compassion, 501(c)(3)

Social Compassion in Legislation, 501(c)(4)

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