Cruelty Free Cosmetics Act WA HB:1097

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 29, 2024

Washington Becomes 12th State to Mandate Cruelty-Free Cosmetics

Olympia, Washington - February 29, 2024 -  Animal Rights Initiative (ARI) is thrilled to announce that Washington has become the 12th state to mandate cruelty-free cosmetics. After being reintroduced in the 23/24 legislative session as HB 1097, the bill has successfully passed both chambers of the Washington State Legislature and now awaits the governor's signature to become law.

ARI first proposed the idea to Representative Walen in the Summer of 2021, and it gained momentum as HB 1615 in the previous legislative session. The bill will prohibit the sale of any newly developed cosmetic if the company used animal testing in its development.

This monumental win for animals still suffering in the cosmetic testing industries is a result of collaborative efforts between ARI, the Humane Society of the United States, and Pasado's Safe Haven. The bill passed with overwhelming support, receiving a vote of 90-3 in the House and 48-1 in the Senate.

Under this new legislation, companies clinging to traditionally accepted in vivo tests will now be required to use cruelty-free alternatives, such as computer models or human cell-based tests, in order to sell cosmetics in Washington. Animals typically used for cosmetic tests, such as bunnies and guinea pigs, do not share physiology with humans, rendering tests inaccurate 90% of the time.

"We are incredibly proud that Washington has chosen to step into the future and protect consumers by demanding up-to-date, accurate, and efficient tests be used for cosmetic safety," said Wendy Linton, Board Member of ARI.

For more information about Animal Rights Initiative and its efforts to promote cruelty-free cosmetics, visit animalrightsinitiative.org.

Contact Information:

Amanda Fox

2005 E Jansen Ct

Seattle, WA 98112

amandafox@animalrightsinitiative.org

animalrightsinitiative.org