The WATCH Act amends federal law to require quarterly inspections of foreign laboratories that receive U.S. government funding for animal research, primarily through the National Institutes of Health. Foreign labs must demonstrate compliance with the same animal welfare standards that apply to domestic facilities, including proper establishment of animal care committees, review of animal treatment, and record-keeping procedures. If a foreign laboratory fails to meet these standards and does not correct the problems after being given a reasonable opportunity, the federal government can suspend or revoke its grants and contracts. The law takes effect 180 days after enactment and requires the Department of Health and Human Services to work with foreign governments to implement and enforce these inspection requirements while respecting their sovereignty. Compliance certifications will be made publicly available through the Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare.
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