Research Facilities and Testing Facilities That Use Animals - Adoption and Reporting Requirements

SB 422 requires Maryland research and testing facilities that use dogs or cats for research, education, or testing to adopt out animals no longer needed for these purposes. Facilities must establish adoption processes through approved animal rescue organizations and submit annual reports to the Department of Agriculture detailing the number of animals owned, used, and released to rescues. The law applies to all such facilities (excluding those solely providing spay/neuter services) and mandates public posting of aggregated annual data online. It focuses on increasing transparency around animal welfare practices without altering research protocols.