The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 314, aims to enhance the protection of animals used in medical research by requiring the Commissioner of Agriculture to assess the need for establishing standards for breeders of companion animals. This examination will specifically evaluate whether hospitals, educational institutions, and licensed laboratories should be prohibited from purchasing or using companion animals from breeders who have violated pet dealer-related regulations set by the United States Department of Agriculture. The Commissioner is tasked with submitting a report, including any legislative recommendations, to the relevant committee by January 15, 2027.

The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, and introduces new legal language to current law, specifically establishing the need for standards in animal breeding and care for research purposes. The language also indicates that the proposed deletions from current law are not applicable in this instance, as the entire text of the bill is new. The overall goal of the bill is to ensure better treatment and regulation of animals involved in medical research within the state.