Animal Researcher Protection Legislation Moves Forward

On a bipartisan 9-0 vote, the California Assembly Judiciary Committee today (April 17) passed legislation to promote the protection of university animal researchers. The bill, AB 2296, is authored by Assemblymember Gene Mullin (D-San Mateo) and sponsored by the University of California. Acts of violence against UC faculty and staff by anti-animal research extremists not only continue, but are increasing in frequency and severity. UC personnel continue to be targets of arson, bombings, vandalism, intimidation, harassment and other similar acts, both at work and at home. As passed by the committee, AB 2296 would focus on limiting a tactic used by anti-animal research extremist groups -- the posting on the Internet of names, home addresses and other personal information that can then be used to harass researchers and their families. The legislation gives universities and researchers the ability to pursue sanctions, such as injunctions and the ability to recover damages, against those who make such postings. "While UC passionately and unequivocally supports the civil and free expression of views, including those that oppose the use of animals in research, the university will not tolerate acts of violence and harassment," said UC Provost Wyatt R. Hume. "The committee's decision today to move this bill forward is an important step in addressing this issue. It represents a crucial acknowledgment by the Legislature of the importance of maintaining academic freedom and a university environment free of violence and intimidation." The bill is scheduled to be heard in the Assembly Appropriations Committee within the next several weeks. More information about AB 2296.