New US bill will end animal testing for cosmetics in the U.S. and stop sale of new animal-tested cosmetics
This week, the Humane Cosmetics Act was reintroduced in the U.S. House and Senate by a bipartisan group of legislators including Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) Rob Portman (R-OH), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Susan Collins (R-ME), and Hickenlooper (D-CO) and Representatives Don Beyer (D-VA), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Paul Tonko (D-NY), and Ken Calvert (R-CA) as well as 70 other house cosponsors.
The bill would end the use of animal-based testing for cosmetics in the U.S. and prohibit the sale of any cosmetic product that has been tested on animals after the date of enactment.
Our 2019 online poll, conducted by SurveyUSA, revealed that opposition to animal testing for cosmetics is strong across generations and that support for a national law prohibiting the practice was high across party lines. The poll found that nearly 8 out of 10 [79%] supported a federal law that would prohibit animal testing for cosmetics. When broken down by self-reported party affiliation, the poll shows high support across party lines with 83% Democrat, 72% Republican, and 80% of Independents “supporting” or “strongly supporting” a federal ban.
The poll also revealed that the desire to end animal testing for cosmetics is a value shared across generations with Millennials, Gen Xers, and Baby Boomers equally passionate about the issue.
Rep Beyer said, “Congress must bring an end to the cruel and outdated practice of animal testing. Advances in the cosmetics industry have already made the process unnecessary by offering safer and more scientifically sound methods. By passing the Humane Cosmetics Act, we are outlawing an obsolete and inhumane practice without damaging American businesses. I thank my colleagues in both parties and chambers for their support of the Humane Cosmetics Act, which I hope will receive swift consideration.”
Cruelty Free International Chief Executive, Michelle Thew said, “Cruelty Free International applauds this renewed effort to bring an end to animal testing for cosmetics across the United States. This will match the progress made at the state level and around the world as consumers, companies, regulators and advocates come together to achieve a common goal of ensuring that animals won’t suffer for the sake of cosmetics anywhere.”
Monica Engebretson, Cruelty Free International’s Head of Public Affairs for North America, added, “In a difficult political climate, this is an issue that could be a shining example of political and generational unity. Our work in several states has proven that there is an appetite for legislative action on this issue with bans already in effect in four states, others set to come into force soon, and legislation pending in New York.”
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