H.R.2976 - Cold-blooded Animal Research and Exhibition Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 2976, the "Cold-blooded Animal Research and Exhibition Act," aims to amend the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) to include cold-blooded species, such as reptiles, amphibians, cephalopods, and fish, under its protections. This bill expands the definition of "animal" in the AWA to encompass these species when used for research, testing, experimentation, exhibition purposes, or as pets. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Ms. McCollum and referred to the Committee on Agriculture.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to extend the AWA's regulations and standards of care to cold-blooded animals used in research, exhibition, and as pets. This would likely lead to increased costs for research facilities, exhibitors, and breeders who handle these animals, as they would need to comply with AWA regulations. It could also lead to improved welfare standards for these animals, ensuring they are treated humanely.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced welfare standards for reptiles, amphibians, cephalopods, and fish used in research, exhibition, and as pets.
- Increased transparency and accountability in the treatment of these animals.
- Potential for improved scientific research outcomes due to better animal care.
- Reduced risk of zoonotic diseases spreading from these animals to humans.
- Alignment with evolving societal values regarding animal welfare.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased costs for research facilities, exhibitors, and breeders due to compliance with AWA regulations.
- Potential for reduced research involving cold-blooded animals due to increased regulatory burden.
- Possible negative impact on businesses that rely on the sale or exhibition of these animals.
- Potential for unintended consequences due to the broad definition of "animal".
- Enforcement challenges due to the diversity of species covered.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve the well-being of animals. However, the Constitution does not explicitly address animal welfare. The Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) could be invoked to justify federal regulation of animal welfare if these animals are part of interstate commerce. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or freedoms.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).