What does the AWA Regulations specify about records at facilities?

The Animal Welfare Act (AWA) Regulations place a strong emphasis on transparency and accountability regarding the care and treatment of animals in facilities. One of the key provisions is that records must be made available for inspection by the USDA, which is the regulatory authority responsible for enforcing the AWA. This requirement ensures that facilities are operating in compliance with the standards set forth in the Act and allows for oversight aimed at protecting animal welfare.

By having records open for inspection, the USDA can effectively monitor the conditions under which animals are kept, the quality of care they receive, and ensure that facilities adhere to the legal requirements. This promotes a culture of accountability and enhances public trust in how animals are treated in regulated environments.

In contrast, the other options suggest scenarios that do not align with the goal of ensuring animal welfare through oversight and compliance. Keeping records confidential or destroying them after a year would eliminate vital information needed for monitoring practices, while only sharing records with external auditors could limit the USDA's ability to conduct thorough inspections and assessments.