Bill > HR1291

This bill, known as the Humane and Existing Alternatives in Research and Testing Sciences (HEARTS) Act of 2025, aims to reduce animal usage in scientific research by establishing new guidelines and creating a dedicated National Center for Alternatives to Animals in Research and Testing. The bill recognizes that while the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has historically relied on animal research, many promising medications fail in human trials despite animal testing, and effective alternative research methods are emerging. Key provisions include requiring NIH to establish guidelines that prioritize non-animal research methods, mandating that research proposals be reviewed by experts in non-animal methods, and creating a new national center to develop, promote, and fund alternatives to animal research. The legislation also requires research entities receiving federal funding to report the number of animals used in their studies, disaggregated by species, and develop plans to reduce animal usage. The bill seeks to encourage the use of innovative technologies like organoid cell cultures, 3D modeling with human cells, computer models, artificial intelligence, and other advanced research techniques that can potentially provide more accurate and humane scientific insights. By establishing incentives and resources for non-animal research methods, the bill aims to modernize scientific research practices while potentially improving research outcomes and reducing animal suffering.

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https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1291/all-info