Bill > SB535

This bill establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for research and testing facilities that use animals in Maryland. It requires all such facilities to obtain a license from the Department of Agriculture, with licensing contingent upon passing an inspection by a newly created State Inspector of Animal Welfare. The bill defines "research facilities" and "testing facilities" broadly, covering entities that use animals for research, education, experimentation, or product testing, while explicitly excluding schools, higher education institutions, and organizations that only provide beneficial animal services. The legislation mandates that these facilities take reasonable steps to provide for the adoption of dogs and cats no longer needed for research purposes, including establishing private placement processes and maintaining lists of approved animal rescue organizations. The bill also creates an Animals in Research Fund to cover the costs of inspections and regulatory duties, and establishes a penalty structure for facilities that violate the regulations, with fines ranging from $1,000 for a first offense to $5,000 for subsequent offenses. Additionally, the bill requires annual reporting for schools and higher education institutions using animals, and directs the Department of Agriculture to adopt regulations ensuring the humane treatment of research animals consistent with the Federal Animal Welfare Act. The new regulations will take effect on October 1, 2025.

Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0535?ys=2025RS