Which line of authority is responsible for submitting the annual report to OLAW?

The Institutional Official (IO) is responsible for submitting the annual report to the Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW). This role typically involves overseeing the entire institution's adherence to regulations for animal care and use in research. The IO ensures that the institution meets the requirements set forth by OLAW and takes accountability for the institution's animal welfare program.

The annual report serves as a critical communication tool to OLAW that encompasses the institution's compliance status regarding animal research, including updates on policies, any changes in the IACUC structure, and general outcomes of animal studies. By having the IO submit this report, it reinforces the institution's commitment to responsible animal care and compliance with federal regulations.

Other individuals, while they have important roles in the animal welfare system, do not have the overall accountability required to submit this report. The IACUC chairperson, for example, leads the committee that addresses animal use protocols and compliance checks, but the final institutional oversight and authority lie with the IO.