FINAL BILL REPORT

SSB 5212

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Background: The federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA) of 1966 governs the treatment of animals in research, exhibition, transport, and by dealers. Other laws, policies, and guidelines may include additional species coverage or specifications for animal care and use, but all refer to the Animal Welfare Act as the minimum acceptable standard.

Each higher education institution or research center which maintains a practice related to animal research must operate an Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) in accordance with the AWA and the Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. At least one member of the IACUC must be a veterinarian with the responsibility for providing care to the animals used in research and one must be a public member not affiliated with the institution in any way other than performing IACUC duties.

The University of Washington, Washington State University, as well as the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, among others, currently conduct animal research.

Summary: A higher education institution research facility that receives public funds, including tax exempt status, or a facility conducting research in collaboration with a higher education facility, and confines dogs or cats for science or research purposes, must first offer the animal for adoption before destroying the animal. The facility may have its own adoption program or enter into an agreement with an animal care and control agency or animal rescue group.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate	48
House	96	(House amended)
Senate	47	(Senate concurred)