An Act to protect nonhuman primate infants in research institutions and product testing facilities

HD 894 prohibits research institutions and product testing facilities from separating infant nonhuman primates (such as monkeys) from their biological mothers for research or testing purposes, except when medically necessary for the health of either animal. If separation occurs for medical reasons, facilities must minimize distress without sedatives or restraint and reunite mother and infant as soon as possible. The law applies to facilities testing products like cosmetics, drugs, or medical devices and covers the first 12 months of an infant’s life. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health must create implementing regulations within 90 days of the bill’s passage.