Canada is inching closer to become a completely cruelty-free cosmetics market after the country’s Senate has formally endorsed Bill S-214, known also as the “Cruelty Free Cosmetics Act.”
This legislation would prohibit domestic animal testing for cosmetics, and also the sale of cosmetics that have undergone any form of new animal testing. Currently, the bill moves to the House of Commons for consideration.
The S-214 bill was amended in the Senate in order to add a phase-in period so that the industry can comply in time with the legislation, will now move to the House of Commons.
According to Plant Based News, Sen. Carolyn Stewart Olsen, the bill’s sponsor, said: “I’m pleased that the Cruelty-Free Cosmetics Act, which I introduced in 2015 in collaboration with Humane Society International and Animal Alliance of Canada, has been endorsed by my colleagues in the Senate.”
She also added, “it is my sincerest hope that Members of Parliament will act swiftly to make cosmetic animal testing a thing of the past.” The news seems like a step forward and a major achievement towards a more fair society, bringing Canada “into the 21st century,” according to the legislator.
#BeCrueltyFree was the name of the campaign behind the efforts, led by Humane Society International [HSI], Animal Alliance and LUSH Cosmetic. It’s known that 37 countries – including the world’s largest beauty markets – have already banned these “cruel” practices.
“We urge Members of Parliament to listen to their constituents, the overwhelming majority of whom support federal legislative action to bring an end to the cruelty of cosmetic testing in Canada,” said Liz White, Animal Alliance of Canada Director, referring to the discussion of the bill in the House of Commons. “We look forward to working with all parties to see this bill become law. No animal should ever again be made to suffer for the sake of human vanity,” she added.
Meanwhile, Tricia Stevens, LUSH spokesperson expressed the company’s completely support towards the bill and their hopes that it will transform Canada into a country that will lead the way worldwide, “As a leading cruelty-free company, LUSH Fresh Handmade Cosmetics has supported this bill with enthusiasm and we thank the Senate for making the right decision. Once passed, the Cruelty Free Cosmetics Act will set Canada apart as a leader and will allow the cosmetics industry to thrive and provide consumers with the products they want.”
