H.R. 2976: Cold-blooded Animal Research and Exhibition Act

This bill is known as the Cold-blooded Animal Research and Exhibition Act and aims to amend the Animal Welfare Act to formally include cold-blooded species under its protections. Here are the key provisions of the bill:

Inclusion of Cold-blooded Animals

The bill seeks to redefine the term animal in the context of the Animal Welfare Act. Under this new definition, the term will encompass:

• Warm-blooded animals, which include familiar pets and other mammals.
• Cold-blooded animals, which will cover representatives from species such as:
  • Reptiles
  • Amphibians
  • Cephalopods (like octopuses)
  • Fish

Exclusions from the Definition

While expanding the definition of animals, the bill also specifies certain exclusions. It will not include:

• Birds, rats of the genus Rattus, and mice of the genus Mus that are bred specifically for research purposes.
• Horses that are not used for research.
• Farmed animals such as:
  • Livestock, poultry, or fish that are used or intended for use as food or fiber.
  • Livestock, poultry, or fish that are involved in improving animal breeding, nutrition, or production efficiency.

Application of the Act

With the inclusion of cold-blooded species, the bill intends to ensure that these animals are afforded certain protections under the Animal Welfare Act, particularly when they are used for:

• Research purposes
• Testing or experimentation
• Exhibition purposes
• As pets

Regulatory Oversight

The amendments would empower the Secretary (of Agriculture) to determine any additional species that may be considered as animals for the purposes of the Act.

Intent of the Bill

The primary aim is to enhance the welfare of cold-blooded animals by bringing them under regulatory oversight and ensuring humane treatment in various contexts outlined above.

Relevant Companies

• ZOO - Companies involved in exotic pet care and reptiles may see changes in compliance and treatment standards.
• WOOF - Pet service providers may need to adapt their practices to include more cold-blooded species in their service offerings and care guidelines.