WATCH Act

This bill amends the Public Health Service Act to enhance oversight of animal research conducted abroad by establishing new requirements for foreign laboratories. It mandates that foreign laboratories receiving U.S. federal funds for biomedical and behavioral research involving animals must undergo quarterly inspections as a condition of eligibility for funding. These inspections, overseen by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, will evaluate compliance with applicable animal welfare requirements, including the establishment of animal care committees, review of animal care and treatment, and proper record-keeping. Upon successful inspection, laboratories will receive a certification of compliance , which will be publicly accessible. Non-compliant laboratories will be granted a reasonable opportunity to take corrective action. However, failure to address identified issues can result in the suspension or revocation of their federal grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements. The Secretary will designate an inspecting authority and coordinate with foreign regulatory bodies to implement and enforce these new provisions effectively.