OFA has submitted comments on the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness’ consultation on proposed legislative amendments to the Animals for Research Act and prospective amendments to regulations under the Act.

OFA supports strong animal welfare oversight but warns that proposed amendments to the Animals for Research Act could create regulatory uncertainty and set a precedent that may unintentionally restrict livestock and agricultural research. OFA stresses that policy must remain science-based and aligned with existing national oversight, cautioning that perception-driven or duplicative rules could undermine research capacity, veterinary training, disease preparedness, and Ontario’s competitiveness. OFA urges clear assurances that farmed animals will not be captured by narrow definitions of “invasive research” and “veterinary purpose,” which could constrain hands-on veterinary education, and calls for continued commitment to evidence-based policymaking.