Proposed PUPPS Act Targets Commercial Dog Research Supply Chain

Representative Nancy Mace introduced the Prohibiting Unethical Procedures on Pets in Science Act, known as the PUPPS Act, on September 22, 2026. The proposed legislation aims to amend the Animal Welfare Act by imposing a comprehensive nationwide ban on several operations within the laboratory animal supply industry. The PUPPS Act makes it illegal for any person to breed a dog for research purposes, engage in the commercial distribution of dogs for research purposes, or knowingly acquire dogs that were bred for experimentation. The bill outlines civil penalties of up to $10,000, potentially rising to $40,000 for repeated violations.

The PUPPS Act seeks to disrupt the commercial supply chain of dogs used in scientific testing, targeting domestic breeding companies and commercial distributors. If passed, the law would introduce significant new regulatory requirements and financial penalties for businesses involved in the animal research industry.

Recommendations regarding dog welfare standards are currently under review by parliamentary bodies.