WATCH Act

This legislative proposal seeks to amend the Public Health Service Act to enhance oversight of animal research conducted abroad. It mandates that foreign laboratories receiving federal funds from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for biomedical and behavioral research involving animals must undergo quarterly inspections to ensure compliance with U.S. animal welfare requirements. The Secretary, in consultation with foreign authorities, will establish the inspection process, which evaluates the operation of animal care committees , the review of animal care and treatment, and proper record-keeping procedures . Upon successful inspection, a certification of compliance will be issued and made publicly accessible by the Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare. Laboratories failing to comply will be granted a reasonable opportunity for corrective action . Persistent non-compliance can result in the suspension or revocation of their federal grants or contracts. The bill also requires coordination with foreign governments to facilitate its implementation while respecting national sovereignty.