The U.S. government is coming under fire from animal rights activists amid concerns that almost 45,000 wild horses could be euthanized in an attempt to control their numbers. Under the terms of the 1971 Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act, the BLM manages, protects and controls wild horses and burros. The law authorizes the agency to move wild horses and burros off ranges to sustain the health of public lands. Since 1971, the BLM has adopted out more than 235,000 wild horses and burros, according to the spokesman. The agency also noted that the Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Board is an independent panel comprised of members of the public.

Source: Fox News September 13, 2016 18:56 UTC