Lala Kent and Tricia Helfer Advocate for the Humane Cosmetics Act in Congress

A coalition of amazing advocates, legislators, celebrities, and ethical corporations convened on Capitol Hill this week to Support the Humane Cosmetics Act (H.R. 5399). This crucial piece of legislation seeks to end the cruel practice of cosmetics testing on animals in the United States and prohibit the import and sale of cosmetics tested on animals from other parts of the world. The event was headlined by prominent supporters, including the Humane Society of the United States, Humane Society Legislative Fund, Humane Society International, actress Tricia Helfer, TV personality Lala Kent, and Lush Cosmetics.

Source: HSUS/YouTube

The bipartisan bill is sponsored by U.S. Representatives Don Beyer (D-Va.), Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.), Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.), Ken Calvert (R-Calif.), and Tony Cárdenas (D-Calif.). Their efforts are backed by a stellar cast of advocates who are determined to see an end to the inhumane testing of cosmetics on animals.

One of the most poignant elements of this campaign is the character “Ralph,” a stop-motion-animation puppet featured in Humane Society International’s OSCAR®-shortlisted film, “Save Ralph.” This film provides a harrowing glimpse into the life of a rabbit subjected to cruel testing procedures. Sara Amundson, President of the Humane Society Legislative Fund, emphasizes the urgency of the situation, stating, “Right now, there is no second act for animals like Ralph. The U.S. Congress needs to pass the bill and Save Ralph.”

Traditional cosmetics animal testing often involves subjecting animals like rabbits, mice, rats, and guinea pigs to painful procedures, such as chemical substances being dripped into their eyes or applied to their shaved skin. These animals receive no pain relief, and their lives are tragically cut short as a result of these tests.

TV personality and entrepreneur Lala Kent, a staunch animal lover and mother, expressed her determination to advocate for a more humane world for her daughter and all creatures. She stated, “Cosmetics testing on animals is a barbaric practice that has no place in the United States.”

Actress Tricia Helfer, the voice behind “Cottonballs” in the English-language version of “Save Ralph,” shared her astonishment at the prevalence of animal testing in the beauty industry. She asserted, “With modern testing methods, there is absolutely no need for animals to suffer in the name of beauty.”

The United States has lagged behind many other nations in ending cosmetics animal testing, but progress is being made. Eleven states, including California, Hawaii, and New York, have already passed laws banning the sale of cosmetics newly tested on animals. The federal Humane Cosmetics Act would extend these protections nationwide.

Humane Society International, a global leader in the fight against animal testing, has successfully advocated for bans on cosmetic animal testing in numerous countries, including Mexico, Brazil, and Canada. They are now urging U.S. policymakers to join this international movement toward cruelty-free beauty products.

One of the most significant allies in this fight is Lush Cosmetics, a company dedicated to ending animal testing and supporting ethical practices in the cosmetics industry. Carleen Pickard, Advocacy & Activism Manager of Lush Cosmetics, emphasized the company’s commitment to cruelty-free regulation and meeting consumers’ demand for ethical products.

With over 1,500 cruelty-free beauty brands available in North America and alternative testing methods that are both more humane and scientifically advanced, there is no excuse to continue the outdated and cruel practice of testing cosmetics on animals.

The gathering on Capitol Hill demonstrates that compassion and advocacy can create a ripple effect of positive change. The passage of the Humane Cosmetics Act would not only spare countless animals from suffering but also position the United States as a leader in the global movement toward ethical and cruelty-free beauty products.

Sign this petition to Support legislation to end cosmetic testing on animals!

Not Your Sweatshirt By Tiny Rescue: Animal Collection

Related Content:

• Animal Welfare Group Loses High Court Challenge Over Cosmetic Testing on Animals
• Canada Set to Ban Cosmetic Testing on Animals
• Hawaii Set to Ban Animal Cosmetic Testing
• Beauty is Pain… for Animals. Urge the U.S. to Drop Cruel Cosmetic Testing!
• Can This Cute Video From Ricky Gervais End Cosmetic Testing on Animals?

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