HARRISBURG, Pa.—Yesterday, Gov. Josh Shapiro signed S.B. 381, known as the Beagle Bill, bipartisan legislation that marks important progress for animals in Pennsylvania. The law creates a pathway to adoption for dogs and cats after their use in research or testing has ended and, through a separate provision, prohibits the sale of animal-tested cosmetics in the state. It also strengthens transparency and accountability around animal research.
“Thank you to Governor Shapiro for signing the Beagle Bill, common-sense, bipartisan legislation that will provide additional protections for dogs, cats and other animals used in experiments,” said Kristen Tullo, Pennsylvania state director for Humane World for Animals (formerly known as Humane Society of the United States). “We are deeply grateful to our legislative champions, Senators Doug Mastriano and Carolyn Comitta for their leadership and unwavering commitment to animal welfare, and to the countless Pennsylvanians who helped make this victory possible by urging lawmakers to vote for this important bill.”
Supported by 80% of Pennsylvania voters surveyed, the Beagle Bill passed unanimously in both the House and Senate. With its enactment, Pennsylvania becomes the 13th state to prohibit the sale of animal-tested cosmetics and the 18th state to provide dogs and cats used in research with the opportunity to be adopted after the experiments have ended. The law is set to go into effect on April 20, 2027.
