Tracy J. Chappelle 
The new law, S1726, follows seven other states with similar bans as the public shows more interest in cruelty-free products.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed the bill on Nov. 8 after it was unanimously passed by the State Senate and Assembly. First introduced in February 2020 by State Senators Joseph Lagana and Nellie Pou, the new bill is expected to come into force in March 2022.
“Animal testing for cosmetics is often painful and harmful to the animal,” the law says. “In addition, alternative testing methods, such as the use of modified human tissue and the use of computer models, are often cheaper and more accurate than testing on animals, in addition to being cruelty-free.”
The bill follows several studies showing widespread bipartisan support from Americans, who want to end the practice of animal testing. A 2019 study by Cruelty Free International found that 79% of those surveyed supported humane practices. Another survey by the Humane Society of the United States found that more than 67% of those polled want to end animal testing and would prefer researchers to find alternatives to testing cosmetics and other personal care products.
“When passing this law, New Jersey recognized the overwhelming public opinion that animals should not suffer to test cosmetic products or ingredients,” said Vicki Katrinak, director of research and testing at animals to the Humane Society, as Plant Based News reported. “With an increasing number of non-animal testing methods available, there is no ethical justification for continuing to harm animals for shampoo, mascara or aftershave. Thank you to Assembly Member Verrelli and Senator Lagana for their leadership on this bill and to Governor Murphy for signing this important bipartisan legislation. “
The new bill is an extension of a previous New Jersey law that banned cosmetic animal testing in the state anywhere there were valid alternatives available. S1726 prohibits the sale of cosmetics tested on animals in the state, even if the products are made elsewhere.
Violations of the law will result in a fine of up to $ 1,000 per violation.
Today, eight states – California, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Nevada, New Jersey and Virginia – have banned animal testing in cosmetics. The Humane Society of the United States is also working to pass the Humane Cosmetics Act, which would ban the sale of cosmetics made from animal experiments and end the act of animal experimentation nationwide.
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