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

SB 537 requires research and testing facilities in Maryland that use dogs or cats for scientific research, education, or testing to adopt out animals no longer needed for these purposes. Facilities must establish adoption processes, maintain lists of approved animal rescue organizations, and offer animals to these groups if private placements fail. Additionally, all such facilities must annually report to the Department of Agriculture by January 31 on the number of dogs/cats owned and adopted, while schools and higher education institutions using animals must submit annual inspection reports to the General Assembly by December 31. The bill directly affects facilities conducting animal-based research or testing, extending existing adoption requirements to testing facilities for the first time.