Reprint courtesy of The Smithville Times

By Mark Gwin Editor mgwin@smithvilletimes.com 512-2374655

Thursday, March 16, 2006 Volume 115 Number 11

Ruling on livestock registration delayed

By Mark Gwin
The Smithville Times

Those working to oppose the Texas Animal Health Commission’s (TAHC)
proposed rules on livestock premises registration got a little more
time to wage their battle.
TAHC canceled its March 23 meeting, which had been scheduled in Round
Rock (near Austin). The commissioners had planned to consider proposed
regulations that would require registration of sites where livestock,
exotic livestock, domestic fowl and exotic fowl are held, managed or
handled, and to charge a fee for premises registration.
Premises identification is the first step in a three-part program which
aims to eventually include the tagging of animals with Animal
Identification Numbers (AIN) and the tracking of all movement of
animals.
The program is proposed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which is
working to promote a National Animal Identification System (NAIS).
However, the USDA is looking for the state to implement the programs.
Thus far, only Wisconsin has implemented mandatory premises
registration.
The federal government has not set any deadlines, only a strategic
planning document. Without a mandatory timeline from the federal
government, some livestock owners were questioning why Texas was moving
so quickly toward the program.
“We are seeking from the U.S. Department of Agriculture clear direction
on National Animal Identification System timelines for implementation,”
said Dr. Bob Hillman, Texas’ state veterinarian and TAHC executive
director.
“Presently, it does not look like the Federal government will proceed,
so it was not necessary for the state of Texas to proceed at such a
rapid pace.  I believe that this is the right decision – and it is a
big step for rural communities,” said state representative Robby Cook.
It’s unlikely that the additional time will soften the opposition –
which is present on both a state and national level.
“There are already numerous safeguards for the health of our animals,”
noted Bastrop livestock man Mike Kelley. “This program is an
unwarranted intrusion on privacy so the TAHC can collect money.”
Kelley and others have created their own Web site which discusses their
concerns with the document and offers links to more information about
the program at www.texasanimalhealthcommissionwatch.com.
There is also a Web site that takes aim at the entire NAIS program,
www.NoNAIS.org.
“We need to give everyone a chance to voice their concerns, and we need
more time to hear from those that will be most affected.  I appreciate
the TAHC for recognizing the public’s concerns, and for postponing
implementation at this time,” said Cook.
While a decision on mandatory registration is yet to be made, TAHC is
still accepting voluntary registration, and so far has registered more
than 8,200 of the state’s estimated 200,000 premises.
For those who wish to register their premises voluntarily, they may
register now online at http://www.tahc.state.tx.us, or by completing a
registration form and faxing or mailing it to the TAHC.  Many county
extension agents, as well as agricultural associations, have
registration forms available, or can assist in registering online.  The
TAHC also has staff members who can assist by phone. The TAHC’s
headquarters in Austin can be reached toll-free at 1-800-550-8242.
When a decision will be made as to whether or not the program is
implemented is anybody’s guess.
“The next meeting of the Commission is scheduled Thursday, May 4,” said
Dr. Hillman. “However, the agenda for that meeting will not be
developed until late April. It is too early to know whether the
proposed regulations will be considered at that meeting.”

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