EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced [1] recently that the agency is bringing back a plan to gradually phase out testing on mammals, with a goal of ending the practice by 2035. The ambitious goal was originally set in 2019 during President Trump’s first term under then-EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler.
Instead of relying on tests involving animals, the EPA says it will increasingly use newer methods such as computer modeling and other advanced technologies to evaluate chemicals and pesticides.
According to the EPA, the Biden administration removed the original phase-out deadlines. The Trump administration has now restored those deadlines and is pushing the agency to speed up the use of alternative testing methods. EPA officials say the goal is to reduce animal testing while still making sure products meet safety and scientific standards.
Animal welfare groups welcomed the announcement, saying it could save thousands of dogs, rabbits, mice, rats, and other animals from being used in laboratory testing. The EPA is also encouraging researchers and companies to use non-animal testing options whenever possible.