A bill just passed by the state Senate would expand New York’s crackdown on cosmetic testing on animals.
“I think it’s absolutely wonderful. It’s a step in the right direction,” said Todd Friedman, founder of Arthur’s Acres Animal Sanctuary in Parksville. “Any step that ends animal exploitation, cruelty and animal abuse is a victory for us.”
Friedman takes in animals, mostly pigs, that have been abused, neglected, and used for medical testing.
Six of the 37 pigs rescued at the Sullivan County farm underwent medical tests that Friedman calls torture.
“It’s sad. They are here with us, not for us,” he said.
The new bill is sponsored by State Senator Alessandra Biaggi, who said in a statement that “animal testing raises serious concerns by subjecting animals to unnecessary pain and suffering.”
“No animal should ever be subjected to abuse or unsafe conditions and this legislation makes it clear that New Yorkers will not tolerate their mistreatment,” Biaggi said.
The bill passed the state Senate on May 10, but its companion bill in the Assembly has yet to be put to a vote.
Friedman condemns all forms of animal testing and hopes the state will one day ban medical testing on animals.
It encourages everyone to buy cruelty-free products.
“All types of sunscreen, mascara, lipstick, anything. The creams all have a test-free option, a cruelty-free, vegan option,” Friedman said.
Arthur’s Acres is a non-profit organization that depends on donations to support animals.
