Companion Animal Protection Against Cruel Testing Act

The bill would prohibit HHS agencies, including NIH, CDC and FDA, from using federal funds directly or indirectly for biomedical research involving live dogs or cats. It excludes activities such as routine veterinary care, noninterventional observation, research solely about dogs' or cats' health, and certain studies of client-owned animals with naturally occurring disease.

Recipients of covered HHS funding would have to make reasonable efforts to retire, adopt out or transfer dogs and cats no longer needed for research. Euthanasia would be allowed only when a licensed veterinarian determines it is necessary for the animal's condition, welfare or public safety.

The HHS Secretary could waive requirements only for specified public-health or national-security emergencies, if no scientifically valid alternative is reasonably available and a significant, immediate threat would otherwise likely result. A waiver could last no more than 180 days unless renewed, and Congress would receive written notice within 15 days of issuance or renewal.

Before receiving funding, recipients would certify that they and their collaborators will not use the funds for prohibited activities, and they would submit annual certifications and keep compliance records for at least 6 years. HHS could withhold or recover funds, impose other remedies, or begin suspension or debarment proceedings; the bill would also protect people who report suspected violations from retaliation.

HHS would report to Congress each year on implementation, including awards withheld, audits, recovered funds and the welfare and rehoming of animals. The Comptroller General would review implementation and submit a report to Congress.