SB 423/HB 666 restricts the use of certain dogs and cats in research and testing facilities; prohibits the devocalization of dogs and cats; limits the use of traditional animal testing methods under specified circumstances; extends existing adoption requirements for animals used in scientific research to testing facilities; and generally strengthens the regulation of research and testing facilities that use animals for research, education, or product testing.
The bill requires laboratories that test chemicals, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and other products to replace animal-based experiments with federally approved non-animal alternatives once those alternatives are available and accepted by the federal government.
Maryland is home to numerous private and academic research institutions that conduct animal testing. However, current accountability measures are insufficient to ensure the humane treatment of animals used in these settings. Even when validated non-animal testing methods exist, there is no assurance that institutions will adopt them. Large research entities are often slow to change, allowing animal testing to continue—or even expand—long after viable alternatives are available. SB 423/HB 666 establishes clear guardrails governing which animals may be used, how testing is conducted, and other critical aspects of animal research, ensuring that humane best practices are consistently implemented.
Please contact your legislators and ask them to SUPPORT SB 423/HB 666!
Thank you again for being an advocate for Maryland’s animals. Remember, Maryland Votes for Animals, Inc. can only succeed with the help of animal advocates like you. Please consider making a donation to Maryland Votes for Animals at voteanimals.org/donate now, so we can continue fighting for Maryland animals.
With compassion,
Maryland Votes for Animals, Inc.