Debate over Ontario’s proposed update to animal research rules is set to resume at the end of March, as Bill 75 continues to draw differing views from legal, scientific, and animal‑rights communities.

The legislation, part of an omnibus bill called the Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, includes measures that would prohibit “invasive medical research” on dogs and cats, with exceptions for approved veterinary purposes or projects cleared by an animal care committee.

The proposal follows public controversy over dog testing at London’s Lawson Research Institute, which was later deemed ethical by an independent review, though communication gaps were noted.

The program was halted after Premier Doug Ford condemned the work.

Lawyer Brian Gover told CBC News the province is moving too quickly and warned the bill could impede research into cardiovascular disease. He is calling for broader consultation and an expert panel before any changes become law.

Animal Justice, which collaborated on the initial reporting, supports the legislation and says it could reduce suffering in laboratory animals. The bill also proposes banning cosmetic procedures such as ear‑cropping in dogs and declawing in cats.

Supporters, including the Canadian Institute for Animal‑Free Science, say the reforms would encourage modern testing methods and reduce reliance on animal models.