ACTION: APHIS Laboratory Approval Process – Request Comments by November 30, 2015

Veterinary Services (VS) is seeking comments on “A Proposal to Standardize and Consolidate the APHIS Laboratory Approval Process.” This concept paper proposes actions to simplify regulatory oversight and compliance and clarify the laboratory approval process. The current authority and approval for animal diagnostic laboratories to test for diseases is comprised of multiple, unrelated, disease-specific regulations. Consolidating authorities and standardizing the approval processes would enhance transparency and make the approval process more user-friendly and efficient—whether the approval is to conduct testing for single or multiple diseases. The administrative burden associated with obtaining and tracking laboratory approvals, in addition to the steps required to renew an existing approval, would ultimately be minimized.

Consolidation efforts would include veterinary diagnostics regulated by APHIS, with the exception of diagnostics in the National Animal Health Laboratory Network and National Poultry Improvement Plan.

 

Please click here to review the concept paper. You may provide feedback to VS.STAS.Feedback@aphis.usda.gov. All comments provided by November 30, 2015, will be considered.

 

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