As noted by Cruelty-Free International, this marks the second time the Virginia legislature has taken action to restrict animal testing in favor of humane alternatives. In 2018, a bill in Virginia was signed into law to stop state testing facilities from performing animal tests for cosmetics and household products due to an approved non-animal testing method that was available.
Virginia legislators have been at the forefront of federal legislation as well. Former VirginiaCongressmanJim Moran introduced the first federal Humane Cosmetics Actin 2013, and his successor, Congressman Donald Beyer, championed the legislation with support across Congress and party lines.
“We are delighted that Virginia has continued to be a national leader in ending animal testing for cosmetics. This is a significant step not just for Virginia but for the entire United States,” Monica Engebretson, Cruelty Free International’s Head of Public Affairs in North America, said in a statement. “History shows state activity leads to changes at federal level. The new law will help push the United States to finally pass the federal Humane Cosmetics Act. We are thankful to Senator Boysko and Delegate Kory for their amazing leadership, for the bipartisan support from Virginia legislators and to Governor Northam for signing the Humane Cosmetics into law.”
Violations of the newly-passed law are subject to a civil penalty of up to $5,000 and an additional $1,000 for each day the violation continues. The bill preempts any local regulation on cosmetic animal testing.
Virginia now joins California, Nevada, and Illinois in ending the sale of newly animal-tested cosmetics.
Help push for the reintroduction and passage of H.R.514, The Humane Cosmetics Act, that would end the suffering of millions of animals who are needlessly tortured and killed to test cosmetics in the United States by signing this Care2 petition, HERE!
You can help all animals and our planet by choosing compassion on your plate and in your glass. #GoVeg
