<p>More than 100 laboratory animals are awaiting rehoming as the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) aims to reduce reliance on animal testing.</p>
<p>The HHS announced initiatives last week to accelerate the department’s transition toward more human-based research methods. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated in a release that the HHS is focusing on placing human biology at the center of scientific research.</p>
<p>“We are modernizing outdated regulations, investing in human-based technologies, and breaking down barriers that have kept researchers dependent on animal models when better tools are available,” Kennedy said in a release. “Under President Trump, we will use the best science to protect patients, accelerate medical breakthroughs, and end unnecessary animal testing.”</p>
<p>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) was instructed in November 2025 to phase out all monkey research, according to Science. A federal contract bid from the CDC seeking sanctuaries for 132 monkeys was posted on June 20.</p>
<p>However, the contract’s deadlines have been postponed multiple times and have undergone modifications.</p>
<p>As of September 11, the CDC is still searching for a sanctuary for the monkeys, which include rhesus and pig-tailed macaques. The contract specifies that the animals must not be used for any type of experimentation, including breeding. The species can live up to 40 years in captivity, according to the National Library of Medicine.</p>
<p>Other parts of HHS have also moved away from animal testing. The Food and Drug Administration issued a direct final rule on September 22 to clarify that non-animal methods of testing for safety should be used when appropriate.</p>
<p>The Washington Examiner has reached out to HHS and the CDC for confirmation on the latest numbers.</p>