Have you been keeping up with PRIM&R in the news? Here are some recent articles written or contributed to by PRIM&R’s executive director, Elisa A. Hurley, PhD, regarding lab animal oversight and the revised Common Rule.

Lab animal regulations can be simplified without weakening welfare standards
STAT

In April, Dr. Hurley published this op-ed after the NIH began accepting public comment on revising laboratory animal research policies and regulations in accordance with the 21^st Century Cures Act. The piece offers four suggestions for reducing administrative burden, while ensuring that lab animals are protected.

The time is right for thoughtful reform. We urge federal decision-makers and the research community not to let legitimate and important concerns about administrative burdens obscure the crucial role that regulations can play in promoting the ethical and humane use of lab research animals. Read more

Here’s why Congress should support the lab animal oversight community
The Hill

Dr. Hurley and PRIM&R board members Claire Hankenson, DVM, MS, DACLAM and David H. Strauss, MD published a second op-ed in response to the NIH’s call for input on the revision of laboratory animal research policies.

We believe it is imperative for policymakers to use this opportunity to strengthen and streamline the oversight of animals in research and enhance the quality of the science that relies on animal subjects.

But, at this moment in time marked by enthusiasm for de-regulation, we also must ensure that the principles at the foundation of ethical animal research are not eroded. We must also guarantee continued funding for national and institution-based oversight structures that promote the humane treatment of laboratory animals. Read more

Strings Attached to Burden-Reducing Parts of Research Rule?
Bloomberg Law

In July, PRIM&R’s executive director provided insight about the first draft guidance about the revised Common Rule set to be released by the Health and Human Services Office for Human Research Protections. Heather H. Pierce, JD, MPH, the chair of PRIM&R’s Board of Directors, also provided comment. For more from Dr. Hurley on the draft guidance related to these “burden-reducing provisions,” see this post on Ampersand.

“The community is clamoring for some more clarity,” Hurley said. “But if the whole intent of this is in part to reduce burden, to be overly prescriptive about the way that you would fulfill these various requirements will be just as burdensome.” Read more