This week’s Take Action Thursday celebrates two victories for the retirement of animals from labs and urges prompt action to help animals in other states.
State Legislation
NAVS is celebrating the passage of bills in two states, Maryland and Delaware, that will give cats and dogs used in research a chance to live the rest of their lives in loving forever homes. Maryland’s legislation has been signed into law. Delaware’s is still waiting on the governor’s signature.
These victories are due to individuals and organizations who reached out to legislators in these states and demanded a second chance for these animals. Thanks to NAVS advocates for helping to make this possible.
Now seven states—California, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada and New York—have laws in place to ensure these animals are made available for adoption, and Delaware is nearly there.
Several other states’ legislatures have adjourned for this session without passing proposed bills; however, four states are actively considering the passage of this legislation. If you live in one of the states below, please take action to support this legislation—advocacy works!
Delaware, SB 101
Passed the Senate 6/27/17; passed the House (amended) 5/1/18; returned to Senate, which passed House version 5/8/18. Awaits Governor’s signature
Massachusetts, S 2387
Referred to the Senate Ways and Means Committee.
New Jersey, A 3274
Referred to the Assembly Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee.
Pennsylvania, HB 2164
Referred to the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee.
Rhode Island, H 7414
Passed the House 4/11/18; referred to Senate Environment and Agriculture Committee.
If your state is not on this list and has not already passed a similar law, let them know that you support the adoption of cats and dogs no longer used for research and would like to see a bill introduced in your state in the next legislative session.
Want to do more? Visit the NAVS Advocacy Center to TAKE ACTION on behalf of animals in your state and around the country. And please make a donation today to support the advancement of humane legislation across the U.S.