Bill > SB1481

This bill requires public institutions of higher education in Virginia that conduct animal testing to publish an annual report with detailed information about their animal research operations. The report must include: progress on replacement, reduction, and refinement efforts (known as the 3Rs approach in animal research); a methodology for measuring this progress; the total number of non-agricultural animals used in research, education, testing, and scientific purposes; a comprehensive account of animal disposition (including euthanized, adopted, transferred, or sold animals); documentation of any adverse events that negatively impacted animal health or welfare; and the percentage of institutional funds spent on procuring, using, and maintaining animals. Each institution must submit this report to the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, which will then make the reports publicly available on its website. This bill aims to increase transparency and accountability in animal research conducted by public higher education institutions in Virginia.