WATCH Act

This bill would require foreign laboratories that receive federal funds through the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for animal research to undergo inspections four times a year. The inspections would check whether the labs follow federal animal welfare rules, including having animal care committees, reviewing animal care and treatment, and keeping proper records. Labs found in compliance would receive a certificate that would be made publicly available. Labs that do not comply and do not fix problems after a reasonable chance would have their grant, contract, or agreement suspended or revoked. The changes would take effect 180 days after the bill becomes law.

Full text and official record on Congress.gov

Sponsors

• W. Gregory Steube Republican sponsor
• 2 cosponsors