Final answer:
The primary regulations in the United States for animal welfare in biomedical research are the AWA and PHS Policy. The AWA was passed in 1966 and has been amended multiple times. The PHS Policy applies to research facilities receiving federal funding.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary laws in the United States regarding animal welfare in biomedical research are the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) and the Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (PHS Policy). The AWA was passed in 1966 and has been amended several times to include requirements such as registering the use of animals and considering alternatives to procedures that may cause distress. The act covers animals like dogs, cats, rabbits, and nonhuman primates, but not rats, mice, and birds. The PHS Policy applies to all research facilities receiving federal funding and mandates the establishment of an institutional animal care and use committee (IACUC) to review research proposals and ensure humane treatment.
Comparing the selected state law with the federal Animal Welfare Act, I would need to know which state and county the student is researching to provide a specific analysis. However, in general, state animal welfare laws may vary in the specific requirements and regulations they impose. Some states may have stricter laws than the federal act, providing additional protections for animals, while others may have less comprehensive legislation. It is important to explore the specific state law to identify its similarities and differences with the federal act.