The Congressional Zoo and Aquarium Caucus is comprised of supportive members of the U.S. House of Representatives who join together to support the interests of AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums. The Congressional Caucus co-chairs are Representative Mike Quigley (D-IL) and Representative Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE).
Through the Caucus, the community of AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums provides to Congress valuable expertise and resources in animal care and welfare, endangered species survival protocols and recovery, informal education and conservation science research. The goals of the caucus are to:
- Recognize the collective impact of America's accredited zoos and aquariums as they promote science education, conservation and family recreation;
- Foster appreciation for the work of zoos and aquariums as they inspire stewardship, caring and discovery through engaging exhibits and conservation education programs, and;
- Promote zoos and aquariums as science education partners with the nation's public schools.