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HELP PETS Act

2/6/2025, 2:03 PM

Summary of Bill HR 297

Bill 119 HR 297, also known as the "Preventing Unkind and Painful Procedures and Experiments on Respected Species (PUPPERS) Act," aims to prevent institutions of higher education from using federal funds to conduct painful biomedical research on dogs and cats. The bill specifically targets research that causes harm or distress to these animals.

If passed, the bill would prohibit institutions of higher education from using federal funds for any research that inflicts pain or suffering on dogs and cats. This includes experiments that involve invasive procedures, physical harm, or psychological distress.

Supporters of the bill argue that it is important to protect these animals from unnecessary suffering and that there are alternative methods available for conducting research that do not involve harming dogs and cats. They believe that it is unethical to subject these animals to pain and suffering in the name of scientific advancement. Opponents of the bill may argue that restricting funding for certain types of research could hinder scientific progress and limit the ability of researchers to make important discoveries. They may also argue that there are strict regulations in place to ensure the welfare of animals used in research and that additional restrictions are unnecessary. Overall, the PUPPERS Act seeks to prioritize the well-being of dogs and cats in biomedical research and ensure that federal funds are not used to support research that causes unnecessary harm to these animals.

Congressional Summary of HR 297

Higher Education Loses Payments for Painful Experiments, Tests and Studies Act or the HELP PETS Act

This bill prohibits an institution of higher education (IHE) from receiving federal funds if the IHE conducts or funds painful research on dogs or cats. Painful research refers to any research, biomedical training, experimentation, or biological testing classified in specified pain categories by the Department of Agriculture.

Current Status of Bill HR 297

Bill HR 297 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 9, 2025. Bill HR 297 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on January 9, 2025.  Bill HR 297's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce. as of January 9, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 297

Total Number of Sponsors
4
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
4
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
0
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 297

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 297

To prohibit the availability of Federal funds to institutions of higher education that conduct painful biomedical research on dogs and cats.
To prohibit the availability of Federal funds to institutions of higher education that conduct painful biomedical research on dogs and cats.

Comments

Mikayla Creech profile image

Mikayla Creech

610

1 year ago

I can't believe this bill is even being considered. It's just so sad that they would prioritize pets over people in need. I don't see how this is going to help anyone in the long run. It's just a waste of time and resources. Who benefits from this anyway?

Sponsors and Cosponsors of HR 297

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