September 2, 2025

Washington, D.C. — Americans for Medical Progress (AMP) submitted written comments to the Scientific Advisory Committee on Alternative Toxicological Methods (SACATM), which oversees the Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Validation of Alternative Methods (ICCVAM), in advance of its September 11-12, 2025, meeting. With ICCVAM poised to play a larger role across federal research agencies, AMP emphasized the importance of balanced, evidence-based policies that integrate New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) while continuing to recognize the essential role of animal models.

AMP’s comments included three recommendations:

1. Establish a standardized definition of NAMs;
2. Ensure ICCVAM’s expansion is supported by commensurate expertise and resources necessary to address biomedical research broadly;
3. Provide clear communication and set realistic expectations for NAMs.

These recommendations reflect AMP’s commitment to advancing policies where NAMs and animal studies complement–rather than compete with–each other to drive biomedical progress.

Read AMP’s full public comments here. To listen to the SACATM meeting, click here.