NIH Grants and Funding
AWA Research Facility Registration Updates, Reviews, and Reports
On November 24, 2021, the USDA APHIS issued a final rule which will become effective on December 27, 2021, in response to the 21st Century Cures Act. Specifically, the rule removes the requirements that:
- Registered research facilities update their registration information every 3 years.
- The IACUC at each facility conducts a continuing review of research activities involving animals. Instead, it requires a complete resubmission and review of such activities at least every 3 years. This change harmonizes the timeline for the complete review process with that of the NIH OLAW.
- Research facilities request an inactive status if they no longer use, handle, or transport AWA-covered animals.
The USDA also clarifies the duration of a registration and conditions for its cancellation. Furthermore, it will no longer require that the Institutional Official or Chief Executive Officer sign the annual report.
This final rule can be viewed in the Federal Register.
Handling of Animals; Contingency Plans
On December 3, 2021, the USDA APHIS issued a final rule which will become effective on January 3, 2022.
The rule establishes regulations under which research facilities and dealers, exhibitors, intermediate handlers, and carriers must meet certain requirements for contingency planning and personnel training. The rule will better ensure that entities responsible for animals regulated under the Animal Welfare Act are prepared to safeguard the health and welfare of animals if emergencies or disasters strike.
This final rule can be viewed in the Federal Register.