Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB381

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/6/25
• Refer: 3/6/25

Caption

In riot, disorderly conduct and related offenses, further providing for nonapplicability of subchapter; in public safety, prohibiting certain animal experimentation, sale and testing and providing for whistleblower protection; and imposing penalties.

Impact

If enacted, this legislation would significantly alter existing state laws governing animal experimentation. It places a restriction on the funding of specific animal research projects that cause undue pain and distress, thereby potentially reducing the number of animals subjected to such research practices. Additionally, the bill mandates that animal testing facilities that no longer require certain animal subjects must offer them for adoption, hence encouraging humane alternatives to euthanasia. This aligns state funding and research practices with contemporary ethical standards around animal care.

Summary

Senate Bill 381 (SB381) seeks to amend Titles 18 and 35 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to address animal welfare by prohibiting certain forms of animal experimentation and testing, particularly focusing on dogs and cats. The bill introduces provisions that would prevent the use of Commonwealth funds for painful animal research classified under specific distress categories. By establishing this legal framework, the bill aims to enhance the humane treatment of animal subjects in research environments, setting higher ethical standards for scientific investigations that utilize living beings.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB381 appears to be generally supportive among animal welfare advocates who view it as a progressive move towards safeguarding animal rights. However, there may be opposition from research institutions concerned about the implications of funding restrictions on vital scientific research. Stakeholders in biomedical fields are likely to present arguments emphasizing the potential drawbacks of limiting funding, as such measures could hinder important animal studies necessary for advancements in health and science.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the bill's prohibition against the use of Commonwealth funds for research involving painful animal experimentation and unnecessary medical interventions like devocalization. Research facilities might argue that such prohibitive measures could limit their capabilities to conduct necessary and ethically justified research. Moreover, the extent of the adoption mandate for animals that are no longer needed in testing may also raise concerns regarding the practical challenges of facilitating safe and proper adoptions for these animals.