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Humane and Existing Alternatives in Research and Testing Sciences Act of 2021

12/30/2022, 3:32 PM

Summary of Bill HR 4101

Bill 117 HR 4101, also known as the Humane and Existing Alternatives in Research and Testing Sciences Act of 2021, aims to promote the use of humane and effective alternatives to animal testing in scientific research. The bill recognizes the importance of advancing scientific knowledge while also prioritizing the ethical treatment of animals.

The key provisions of the bill include:

1. Establishing a National Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing (NCAAT) within the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to coordinate research and development of alternative testing methods. 2. Requiring federal agencies that fund or conduct research involving animals to prioritize the use of non-animal testing methods whenever possible. 3. Providing funding for the development and validation of alternative testing methods, such as in vitro models, computer simulations, and human tissue-based assays. 4. Encouraging collaboration between government agencies, academic institutions, and private sector organizations to promote the adoption of alternative testing methods. 5. Requiring federal agencies to report annually on their progress in implementing alternative testing methods and reducing the use of animals in research. Overall, the Humane and Existing Alternatives in Research and Testing Sciences Act of 2021 seeks to modernize scientific research practices by promoting the use of innovative and humane alternatives to animal testing. By prioritizing the development and adoption of non-animal testing methods, the bill aims to improve the welfare of animals while also advancing scientific knowledge and innovation.

Congressional Summary of HR 4101

Humane and Existing Alternatives in Research and Testing Sciences Act of 2021 or the HEARTS Act of 2021

This bill expands the responsibilities of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to promote research methods that do not use animals. Specifically, the NIH must (1) provide incentives for nonanimal research, and (2) require the evaluation of viable nonanimal alternatives before approving any research that involves animals.

Additionally, NIH applications for research grants involving animals must include an assurance that nonanimal methods for such research are not available.

Current Status of Bill HR 4101

Bill HR 4101 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since June 23, 2021. Bill HR 4101 was introduced during Congress 117 and was introduced to the House on June 23, 2021.  Bill HR 4101's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Health. as of June 24, 2021

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 4101

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
10
Democrat Cosponsors
8
Republican Cosponsors
2
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 4101

Primary Policy Focus

Health

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 4101

Humane and Existing Alternatives in Research and Testing Sciences Act of 2021
To amend the Public Health Service Act to ensure that non-animal methods are prioritized, where applicable and feasible, in proposals for all research to be conducted or supported by the National Institutes of Health, and for other purposes.
Humane and Existing Alternatives in Research and Testing Sciences Act of 2021
HEARTS Act of 2021

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