Bill > AB436

This bill requires animal testing facilities and breeders of dogs and cats to offer animals that are no longer needed for research or testing to "releasing agencies" (such as animal shelters, humane societies, or rescue organizations) for potential adoption, provided the animals do not pose a health or safety risk. The bill defines key terms, including specifying that an "animal testing facility" is a place that uses cats or dogs for research, education, testing, or scientific purposes. Facilities must provide at least a three-week window for a releasing agency to accept the animals before considering euthanasia. State agencies and higher education institutions operating testing facilities may develop their own internal adoption programs. The bill mandates annual reporting to the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, requiring facilities to disclose the total number of animals owned, used in research, transferred for adoption, and other relevant details. Facilities acting in good faith to transfer animals are protected from civil liability. Violations of the bill's provisions can result in a forfeiture of up to $5,000, with each animal and each reporting violation considered a separate offense. The legislation aims to increase the chances of finding homes for animals after they are no longer needed in research settings.

Business and Industry, Government Affairs

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/asm/bill/ab436