|
Proposed APHIS rule would exempt domesticated farm animals
Story Date: 8/7/2012
| |
Source: Michael Fielding, MEATINGPLACE, 8/6/12
A proposed rule that would redefine what a retail pet store is will not affect farmers and ranchers as previously thought.
The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) held a conference call Monday morning to discuss the proposed revision of regulations implementing the Animal Welfare Act (AWA).
The proposed rule would expand the number and type of animal breeding and husbandry facilities subject to licensure, inspection and recordkeeping under AWA. The Animal Agriculture Alliance recently issued an action alert due to concerns about its potential impact on farmers and ranchers.
“We are not going to be regulating farm animals … and cold-blooded species,” Andrea Morgan, associate deputy administrator for APHIS Animal Care, said during the call.
USDA officials also cleared up misconceptions about whether farmers would be regulated if they raise and sell domesticated farm animals such as cattle, hogs and sheep to 4-H programs, for example. All such activity would be exempt from the rule, USDA said.
USDA has extended the comment period for this proposed rule change until August 15.
For more stories, go to http://www.meatingplace.com/.
|
|
|
|
