S. 1104 — WATCH Act

This section establishes requirements for quarterly inspections of foreign laboratories receiving National Institutes of Health (NIH) funds for animal research to ensure compliance with U.S. animal welfare standards under the Public Health Service Act (i.e., Animal Welfare Assurances). Specifically, it (1) directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in consultation with foreign authorities, to implement an inspection process evaluating animal care committees, treatment reviews, and record-keeping; (2) requires issuance of compliance certifications after each inspection, with copies publicly accessible via the Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare; (3) provides opportunities for corrective action; and (4) authorizes suspension or revocation of non-compliant labs' grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements. The requirements take effect 180 days after enactment.