The caucus also serves as a base of support for legislation. Among the many measures introduced this year and backed by HSUS is a bill to update the federal Horse Protection Act by banning methods involved in a cruel practice known as "soring." It relies on chemicals, mechanical devices and other means to cause pain in the hooves of Tennessee walking horses, producing a high-stepping gait. The Pet and Women Safety Act would offer grants to domestic violence shelters that let abused women bring their pets. Both bills have already attracted more than half the members of the House as co-sponsors, a tribute to how uncontroversial such efforts have become.