WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 2304

Concerning the Washington national primate research center at the University of Washington.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Mary Fosse and 8 co-sponsors

HB 2304 modifies operations or oversight of UW's primate research center, affecting animal welfare standards and research capabilities.

First reading, referred to Postsecondary Education & Workforce.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2304

Legislative bill overview

HB 2304 addresses the operational status and oversight of the Washington National Primate Research Center (WNPRC) at the University of Washington. The bill's specific provisions would need to be reviewed in full text, but given the sponsor lineup (which includes animal welfare advocates), it likely involves regulatory changes, oversight mechanisms, or operational restrictions for the primate research facility.

Why is this important

The WNPRC is one of eight federally funded National Primate Research Centers in the U.S., conducting research using primates that proponents argue advances medical knowledge while critics contend raises ethical concerns. The bill's disposition could affect research capabilities, animal welfare standards, transparency requirements, and the facility's operational future—with implications for both biomedical research programs and animal welfare standards in Washington.

Potential points of contention

  • Animal welfare vs. medical research balance: Disagreement over whether primate research is ethically justifiable versus necessary for developing treatments for human diseases
  • Transparency and public oversight: Debate over what level of public access to facility records and practices should be required versus institutional autonomy
  • Economic and research impact: Concerns about how restrictions might affect the facility's federal funding, research output, employment, and Washington's position in biomedical research

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

Sign in to ask a question.