Michigan Senate Bill SB0127

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/6/25
• Refer: 3/6/25

Caption

Animals: care and treatment; conducting of research or training activities on dogs in a manner that causes pain or distress; prohibit. Amends secs. 2674, 2675 & 2678 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.2674 et seq.); adds secs. 2670 & 2675a & repeals secs. 2672 & 2673 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.2672 & 333.2673).

Impact

If enacted, SB 127 will introduce stringent conditions under which dogs may be used for experimental purposes. This includes a clear mandate that any procedure causing pain, fear, or trauma to the animals is unacceptable unless the dog owner consents for veterinary training or treatment of an existing ailment. The enforcement provisions of the bill include civil penalties ranging between $1,000 to $5,000 for violating these stipulations, highlighting a serious commitment to animal welfare within the state's legislative framework.

Summary

Senate Bill 127, also known as 'Queenie's Law,' seeks to amend the Public Health Code of Michigan concerning the treatment of dogs used in experimental activities. The bill aims to prohibit public bodies from utilizing dogs for research or training in ways that may cause pain or distress. Specifically, it defines critical terms such as 'dog,' 'experimental purpose,' and 'public body,' setting clear restrictions on what constitutes acceptable practice in research involving dogs.

Contention

The bill has sparked discussions regarding the balance between advancing medical and veterinary research and protecting animal rights. While proponents argue that it will enhance the humane treatment of animals in research settings, there may be concerns about how such regulations could affect the availability of research opportunities and the broader implications for veterinary education and public health. The explicit nature of the penalties could also lead to debates about their enforcement and the potential impacts on research methodologies in Michigan.