Bill > SB414

This bill requires animal testing facilities and dog or cat breeders to offer certain animals for adoption through releasing agencies (which are nonprofit organizations like animal shelters or rescue groups) before euthanizing them, provided the animals do not pose a health or safety risk. The bill defines key terms such as "animal testing facility" as a place that uses dogs or cats for research, testing, or scientific purposes, and "breeder" as someone who breeds animals for sale or transfer to testing facilities. Facilities must keep the transfer offer open for at least three weeks and can develop their own internal adoption programs or partner with releasing agencies. They are also required to submit annual reports to the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection detailing the total number of animals owned, used in research, transferred for adoption, and adopted. The bill includes a protection clause that shields facilities from civil damages when acting in good faith during transfers. Violations of the bill's provisions can result in a forfeiture of up to $5,000, with each animal or reporting violation considered a separate offense. The goal of the legislation is to provide potential alternative homes for animals used in research or breeding programs, promoting animal welfare and potentially reducing euthanasia rates.

Business and Industry

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/sen/bill/sb414