Which action is NOT permitted by the Institutional Official according to USDA Animal Welfare Act Regulations and PHS Policy?

The action of approving an activity involving animals that the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) has withheld approval for is not permitted under the regulations established by the USDA Animal Welfare Act and the PHS Policy. The IACUC plays a critical role in ensuring that all animal use is ethical, humane, and compliant with relevant laws and guidelines. The purpose of the IACUC is to review and approve research protocols, ensuring they meet necessary standards for animal welfare. If the IACUC has determined that a particular activity does not meet those standards or has not approved it, the Institutional Official cannot override this decision.

This process emphasizes the importance of the IACUC's authority and responsibilities in protecting animal welfare and ensuring compliance with both federal regulations and ethical standards. Approval by the IACUC is a prerequisite for any research activity involving animals; thus, circumventing this requirement undermines the review process and potentially jeopardizes animal welfare.