The bill amends the General Laws in Chapter 4-1, "Cruelty to Animals," by introducing new definitions and clarifying existing ones to improve animal welfare. It defines "adequate living conditions" for animals, with specific criteria for non-livestock and a mandate for the Rhode Island livestock welfare and care standards advisory council to establish standards for livestock by July 1, 2014. The bill also defines terms related to cosmetics, such as "cosmetic" and "cosmetic animal testing," and outlines the prohibition of unnecessary cruelty towards animals, detailing the responsibilities of owners to provide adequate living conditions. It specifies penalties for violations and includes exemptions for research facilities. Additionally, the bill prohibits the sale of cosmetics developed or manufactured using animal testing conducted on or after January 1, 2024, with certain exceptions.

The bill specifically prohibits the sale or offer for sale of any cosmetic product in Rhode Island that was developed or manufactured using animal testing conducted on or after July 1, 2024, with exceptions for testing that addresses human health problems, is required by foreign regulatory authorities, or is conducted under federal requirements. It also allows for testing conducted for non-cosmetic products under certain conditions. The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is granted enforcement authority, and penalties are imposed for violations. The bill is set to take effect upon passage.