Bill > HB662

This bill, known as the Research Animal Retirement Act, establishes a framework for the adoption of cats and dogs that have been used in research facilities after they are no longer needed for scientific experiments. The bill defines key terms such as "research facility" (a USDA-licensed facility that conducts experiments on animals), "retired animal" (a dog or cat no longer needed for research), and specifies that such animals should be offered for adoption through animal rehoming organizations, animal shelters, or directly to individuals. Research facilities must create and publicly post guidelines for determining an animal's suitability for adoption and the qualifications of potential adopters. The bill provides civil liability immunity for research facilities that follow these guidelines when transferring retired animals to new homes. Animals will not be eligible for adoption if a veterinarian determines they are medically unfit or unsuitable for rehoming. Research facilities must enter into written agreements with adoption organizations before transferring animals, and the Health and Human Services Commission is authorized to develop rules for implementing the act. The legislation is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and aims to provide a compassionate and structured approach to finding new homes for research animals after their scientific use has concluded.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB662