Michigan House Bill HB4278

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/14/23
• Refer: 3/14/23

Caption

Animals: research facilities; certain research facilities to offer certain laboratory animals for adoption before euthanization; require. Amends title & secs. 1 & 7 of 1969 PA 224 (MCL 287.381 & 287.387) & adds sec. 8a. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4277'23

Impact

If passed, HB 4278 would significantly alter the landscape of animal research regulation within the state. It would introduce a requirement for research facilities to actively seek out alternatives to euthanasia for laboratory animals, thereby potentially increasing the number of animals adopted rather than put down. This change promotes a more compassionate approach towards laboratory animals and aligns with growing sentiments regarding animal rights and welfare. Furthermore, it emphasizes the responsibilities of research facilities in monitoring and reporting on animal treatment.

Summary

House Bill 4278 seeks to amend existing regulations related to the licensing and regulation of dealers and research facilities using dogs and cats for laboratory research. The bill's focus is to enhance the standards for animal welfare by ensuring that research facilities must offer laboratory animals, which are no longer utilized for research purposes, to approved shelters for adoption prior to considering euthanasia. The legislation mandates that these facilities must submit annual reports concerning their operations and handling of these animals, ensuring transparency and accountability in their practices.

Contention

While the bill aims to improve animal welfare, it may also face opposition from certain sectors of the scientific community. Critics may argue that the requirement to offer animals for adoption could complicate research operations and potentially hinder the timely conduct of vital experiments. There may be concerns about the ability of shelters to take in additional animals and the implications this might have for both the facilities and animal welfare. Additionally, the liability immunity provisions for facilities and shelters raise questions among advocates regarding accountability for the transfer of animals.

Notable_points

The legislation includes a specific section known as 'Teddy's law,' which signifies its focus on the compassionate treatment of laboratory animals. By enacting these amendments, Michigan would join a growing list of states prioritizing the humane treatment of animals involved in scientific research, thereby setting a precedent for future legislative measures that protect animal rights.