WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HSB 58

A bill for an act providing for the ethical use of research animals.

2025-2026 Regular Session

HSB 58 mandates humane treatment of research animals in state-funded facilities, banning painful procedures and devocalization, while promoting adoption for retired animals.

Subcommittee recommends passage.
#animals #research #researchfacilities
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HSB 58

Summary of HSB 58: Ethical Use of Research Animals

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: HSB 58
  • Title: A bill for an act providing for the ethical use of research animals.
  • Status: Subcommittee recommends passage.
  • Introduced: January 22, 2025
  • Classification: Proposed bill
  • Subject: Animals, research, research facilities

Purpose and Intent

HSB 58 aims to establish ethical guidelines for the use of research animals in facilities that receive state funding. The bill seeks to ensure that animals used in research are treated humanely and that their welfare is prioritized, particularly in studies funded by state resources.

Key Provisions

Creation of New Code Chapter

  • The bill introduces a new Code chapter (162A) that specifically regulates the use of research animals by qualified research facilities, which include public and private colleges or universities.

Restrictions on Animal Research

  • Pain and Distress: Research facilities are prohibited from using state funds for research that causes animals pain or distress, except in cases classified as medically necessary, where appropriate anesthetics or analgesics must be used.
  • Devocalization Ban: The practice of devocalizing animals is explicitly prohibited under this bill.

Adoption Programs

  • Research facilities may participate in adoption programs for dogs and cats that are retired from research once they are no longer needed for studies.

Affected Parties

  • Research Facilities: Public and private colleges and universities conducting animal research with state funding will be directly impacted by the new regulations.
  • Animals: The bill aims to protect the welfare of animals used in research settings, ensuring they are not subjected to unnecessary pain or distress.
  • Veterinary Professionals: Those involved in the care and treatment of research animals will need to adhere to the new guidelines regarding pain management and humane treatment.

Procedural Aspects

  • Subcommittee Actions: The bill was introduced and referred to the Higher Education committee on January 22, 2025. A subcommittee meeting was held on February 13, 2025, and the subcommittee recommended passage on February 18, 2025.
  • Next Steps: Following the subcommittee's recommendation, the bill will likely proceed to further legislative consideration.

Conclusion

HSB 58 represents a significant step toward enhancing the ethical treatment of research animals in facilities funded by the state. By establishing clear guidelines and restrictions, the bill aims to promote humane practices in animal research while ensuring that scientific endeavors do not compromise animal welfare.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.