HELP PETS Act

This bill would stop federal funding for colleges and universities that conduct or pay for painful research on dogs or cats. “Painful research” includes research, biomedical training, experiments, or biological tests that the U.S. Department of Agriculture classifies in pain categories D or E, which involve pain or distress to animals. The change would start 180 days after the law is enacted.

There are narrow exceptions. It would still allow clinical veterinary research on dogs or cats who already have a naturally occurring disease or injury, and allow physical exams, training, or studies related to service animals or military animals.

• Who is affected: Colleges and universities that receive federal funds.
• What changes: No federal money if they conduct or fund painful dog or cat research; limited exceptions for clinical care and work with service or military animals.
• When: Takes effect 180 days after enactment.