Darren with NDP MP Brian Massey
Bill S-214 (Cruelty-Free Cosmetics Act) was introduced on April 12 for first reading in the House of Commons by Conservative MP and Health Critic Marilyn Gladu. The private member’s bill, which was passed in the Senate after first being introduced in 2015, seeks to amend Canada’s Food & Drugs Act to prohibit the sale and manufacture of animal tested cosmetics in Canada.
Cosmetics Alliance has worked extensively with MP Gladu, the Health Minister’s office, and stakeholders including animal protection advocates, on proposed amendments to address the many issues identified in the Senate version of the bill and ensure it is workable within Canada’s regulatory framework as well as aligned with the ban in the European Union. Darren Praznik also recently briefed the New Democratic Party regarding the bill, it’s issues, and the need for amendments.
The bill is expected to be debated on June 18. Next steps include a second reading vote to send it to committee, committee review, then third reading before an amended bill would have to go back to the Senate for approval. There are a very limited number of sitting days left before parliament prorogues for the upcoming election. As such, the passing of the bill is unlikely although not impossible.
