Bill > S1167

This bill aims to protect nonhuman primate (NHP) infants in research and product testing facilities by establishing specific guidelines for their care and treatment. The bill defines key terms such as "research institution" and "product testing facility" and provides a comprehensive list of NHP species covered under the legislation. Under the proposed law, research institutions and product testing facilities are prohibited from separating infant NHPs from their biological mothers during the first 12 months of life, except when medically necessary for the welfare of the mother or infant. When temporary separation occurs, the facilities must minimize psychological and physical distress and reunite the NHPs as soon as possible. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health Commissioner is tasked with creating and implementing regulations to enforce these provisions. The bill will take effect 90 days after its passage, with the Commissioner required to develop implementing regulations within the same timeframe. By establishing these protections, the bill seeks to ensure more humane treatment of infant nonhuman primates in scientific and commercial research settings.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1167