Animal Research and Testing Law: The Basic Requirements and Framework

The COVID-19 pandemic revealed that people, animals, and the environment are interconnected; the health and well-being of animals impact the health and well-being of humans, and vice-versa. Scientific research and tests that are performed today using animals – or alternatives to animals – impact the health and well-being of people and animals. Attorneys may have clients who are involved in scientific research and testing, technological advances developing alternatives to animals, or the welfare of animals. Clients may be biotech companies, universities, physicians, scientists, non-profit organizations, veterinarians, etc. Given the scientific, technological, economic, and moral importance of this topic, it is imperative that attorneys properly advise their clients about animal welfare compliance. Although this is a complex area of law, it can be understood more easily by learning the framework from a macro perspective.

Due to the importance of this topic and it's extensive impact, Ms. Lenore Montanaro, Professor at Roger Williams University School of Law, Bristol, Rhode Island, will discuss the recent history of animal-based research law in the United States, the general federal law, and policy framework and requirements that comprise animal research law, and the 3R alternatives to animal-based research (reduction, replacement, refinement).

Learning Objectives:

1. Break down animal research and testing law, including but not limited to animal welfare compliance laws
2. Analyze the history, framework, laws, and 3R alternatives to animals
3. Identify helpful guidance and strategies to support clients involved in scientific research and testing and alternative technologies