Senate Approves Mastriano, Comitta Bill Protecting Animals Used for Experiments



HARRISBURG - The state Senate today unanimously approved legislation sponsored by Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-33) and Sen. Carolyn Comitta (D-19) aimed at protecting dogs, cats and other animals used for experimental purposes.

The protections Senate Bill 381, also known as the Beagle Bill, include:

• Banning painful category E-level experiments on dogs and cats using state funds.
• Stopping devocalization procedures funded by the commonwealth.
• Requiring labs to offer animals for adoption before euthanasia (minimum 30 days).
• Increasing transparency with annual reporting from institutions and the state treasurer.
• Pushing for non-animal testing alternatives when available.
• Protecting whistleblowers who expose animal cruelty in labs.

"These animals who have faced or continue to face cruel experimentation methods are creatures put on this earth by God and should be treated with care and compassion," Mastriano said. "The Beagle Bill protects these animals, respects Pennsylvania taxpayers and keeps our government transparent. I would like to thank my colleagues for their support on this critical legislation, especially Sen. Carolyn Comitta who worked alongside me and helped this bill come to fruition."

To view Mastriano's floor remarks, click here.

Senate Bill 381 now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.

CONTACT: Don Beishl