What is the primary role of AAALAC in laboratory animal care?

• A. It has higher standards for laboratory animal care than federal regulations.
• B. It funds all laboratory research.
• C. It writes federal animal welfare law.
• D. It conducts unannounced inspections of facilities.

Answer: (A)

AAALAC’s primary role is to provide voluntary accreditation that shows an institution meets higher standards for the humane care and use of laboratory animals than those required by federal regulations. Accreditation is earned by a formal review of the institution’s animal care program—covering animal care and housing, veterinary services, training, IACUC oversight, enrichment, recordkeeping, and ongoing improvement—followed by site visits to verify compliance. This isn’t about funding research, nor about writing federal animal welfare laws, and the inspections are part of the accreditation process rather than government regulatory inspections.