WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped reintroduce the Animal Freedom from Testing, Experimentation, and Research (AFTER) Act. The bipartisan legislation would ensure that every federal agency that uses animals for research has policies in place to facilitate the safe relocation of retired, healthy lab animals to adoptive homes, animal rescues, or reputable sanctuaries.  (originally introduced in 2019).

“Retiring lab animals deserve the chance to live the rest of their lives in loving homes,” said Senator Peters. “This bill would encourage federal agencies to collaborate with shelters, rescue organizations, and sanctuaries to help provide these animals with safe and caring environments.” 

Peters led the AFTER Act with U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME). The bill would direct federal agencies to develop regulations that would facilitate the safe retirement of lab animals. The legislation requires that animals be evaluated by a licensed veterinarian and pronounced both mentally and physically healthy before leaving an agency, helping to ensure a smooth transition to a new environment. The bill also encourages federal agencies to work with nonprofit organizations to help place retired animals in sanctuaries and shelters across the country.

This legislation has been endorsed by the Humane World Action Fund, White Coat Waste, and the Kindness Ranch Animal Sanctuary.