NIH Grants and Funding
Learn about the policies, regulations, and guidance that protect animals used in research, research training, experimentation, or biological testing or for related purposes supported by PHS funds. The Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (PHS Policy) applies to activities supported by any PHS agency.
OLAW does not advise on matters concerning the Animal Welfare Act (AWA). Contact USDA for all questions regarding the implementation of the AWA.
The Animal Welfare Act was signed into law in 1966 and is administered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). It is separate from the PHS Policy (administered by OLAW), which was incorporated into law under the Health Research Extension Act of 1985. While the AWA and associated regulations have some requirements for research institutions that are similar to those in the PHS Policy, there are several key differences. Institutions should be aware that the AWA may apply to an activity even though the PHS Policy does not, and vice versa. As a general rule, OLAW expects that institutions will comply with all laws, regulations, permits, and requirements that may apply to a particular activity regardless of the regulatory body responsible.