Which agency is responsible for enforcing the Animal Welfare Act?

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is the agency responsible for enforcing the Animal Welfare Act (AWA). This federal law was established to ensure the humane treatment of animals used in research, exhibition, and as pets. The USDA, through its Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), administers the AWA by establishing standards of care and conducting inspections of facilities that handle animals.

While APHIS is a part of the USDA and plays a significant role in the implementation and oversight of the AWA, it is the USDA at a broader level that encompasses the overall enforcement responsibilities. This includes formulating regulations, overseeing compliance, and facilitating necessary education for stakeholders involved in animal care. Understanding the structure of these agencies is crucial for grasping the legislative framework surrounding animal welfare in the United States.

The other options represent agencies with different focuses: for example, the Fish and Wildlife Service deals mainly with conservation of wildlife and their habitats, while the Environmental Protection Agency focuses on environmental issues rather than direct enforcement of animal welfare laws.