The HEARTS Act directs the National Institutes of Health to prioritize non-animal research methods in federally funded studies and establishes a new National Center for Alternatives to Animals in Research and Testing. The bill requires researchers to fully evaluate non-animal alternatives before approving animal research, mandates that research proposals be reviewed by experts in alternative methods, and requires thorough documentation of why non-animal methods cannot be used. The legislation affects universities, research institutions, and federal agencies that conduct animal research with federal funding. Within one year of enactment, the NIH must create the new National Center to provide funding, training, and resources for developing alternatives such as cell cultures, computer models, and artificial intelligence. Additionally, all federally funded research entities must report to the Center within two years—and every two years thereafter—on the number and species of animals used in their research and submit plans for reducing animal use, with all data made publicly available. The bill aims to improve human-relevant research outcomes while reducing the estimated 17 million to 100 million animals currently used annually in U.S. research, education, and testing.
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