The Beagle Liberation Act of 2026 requires research facilities that receive federal funding to make reasonable efforts to place retired research dogs and cats up for adoption rather than euthanizing them. The law applies to any organization using dogs or cats for research, testing, breeding, or educational purposes, though it allows euthanasia only when a licensed veterinarian certifies that the animal has a terminal medical condition, poses a public health risk, or cannot reasonably adapt to home life. The bill stems from Congress's earlier effort to reduce animal testing in drug development and reflects the reality that as alternative testing methods become more common, more research animals become available for adoption. The Department of Health and Human Services, working with the Department of Agriculture, must issue regulations within one year to implement the law. The bill does not provide specific funding amounts or create a right for individuals to sue facilities for violations.