[Jerusalem Post]

May, 2007

Animal shelters across Israel prepared to take in new tenants Monday, after the Knesset passed a law outlawing all animal testing for cosmetic and cleaning products.

The law, which passed a final reading Monday afternoon and goes into effect immediately, would free the 2,000-3,000 animals that are currently used to test the products.

"This is an important law that reflects how our society is changing its regard for animal rights," said MK Gideon Sa'ar (Likud), who proposed the law. He added that the law still provides for animal testing for medicinal products and the health industry.

Sa'ar told the Knesset that he proposed the bill at the prompting of his 16-year-old daughter, Daniella, who originally approached him about it.

"On the basis of what Daniella saw and learned, she convinced me that this was a bill that needed to be passed. I am very proud of this new generation that wants a more humane society and will ensure a bright future for Israel," said Sa'ar. He added that the bill brought Israel's legislature in line with that of the United States and the European union, both of which passed similar bills three years ago.

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