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Bill

Bill

SR 164

A RESOLUTION urging Kentucky’s colleges and universities to end the use of animals in wasteful government experiments.

2025 Regular Session

Non-binding Kentucky resolution urges state universities to eliminate animals from research deemed wasteful, without defining standards or enforcement mechanisms.

adopted by voice vote
0
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Bill Summary · SR 164

Legislative bill overview

SR 164 is a non-binding resolution urging Kentucky's colleges and universities to discontinue using animals in what the resolution characterizes as "wasteful government experiments." As a resolution rather than a law, it expresses the legislature's position but does not mandate compliance or create legal requirements for institutions.

Why is this important

The resolution addresses ongoing debate about animal research ethics and institutional accountability. Kentucky's universities conduct federally-funded research involving animal subjects, and this measure signals legislative concern about research practices while putting pressure on institutions to justify and potentially reduce animal testing programs.

Potential points of contention

  • Vague terminology: The resolution uses subjective language like "wasteful" without defining what qualifies, making it unclear which research would be targeted or how institutions should respond
  • Institutional autonomy vs. oversight: Universities argue that animal research review is already governed by federal regulations (IACUC committees) and institutional policies; this resolution may be seen as legislative overreach into academic research decisions
  • Research necessity debate: Disagreement exists over whether animal testing in medical, pharmaceutical, and biological research is wasteful or essential—many researchers contend it remains necessary for safety and efficacy testing before human trials

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

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