USDA Moves to Make Animal ID More Cost Efficient.

 

U.S. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced a change of direction for animal disease traceability in the U.S. The new framework will apply only to animals moved in interstate commerce. States and tribal nations will administer the program to provide more flexibility. Lower-cost animal identification technology will be encouraged.

Changes in the program are based on input gathered during last year's listening tour featuring stops at 15 locations. Vilsack said following these meetings, it was apparent a new strategy was needed.

"I've decided to revise the prior policy and offer a new approach to animal disease traceability with changes that respond directly to the feedback we heard," said Vilsack.

One of USDA’s first steps will be to convene a forum of state and tribal nation animal health leaders. The meeting will be used to initiate dialogue that leads to a flexible, coordinated approach to animal traceability for disease purposes. USDA also will reportedly address limiting animal owner liability and maintaining producer confidentiality.

USDA is moving forward.