Removal of individual cattle ID requirement proposed

Individual animal identification would no longer be required for cattle imported into Nebraska under a bill advanced from general file April 19.

Under LB647, introduced by Hyannis Sen. Al Davis, imported cattle would not be required to have individual identification if they are:
• identified by a registered brand;
• accompanied by an official brand inspection certificate issued by the recognized brand inspection authority of the state of origin; and
• imported directly from a mandatory brand inspection area of any state.

Davis said current regulations place undue burdens on livestock owners, sale barns and veterinarians.

“Cattle branding is still the best form of identification available because it is permanent and cannot be lost,” he said. “This is a unique economic development bill for Nebraska that will benefit the entire state.”

The state Department of Agriculture could require imported cattle to have individual identification under LB647 if the director determines that:
• the state of origin recognized brand registration or brand inspection procedures and documentation are insufficient to trace an individual animal to its herd of origin;
• identification by brand alone is in conflict with a standard of federal law or regulation regarding identification of cattle moved into Nebraska; or
• the cattle originates from a location that is not an accredited tuberculous-free state or zone or is not designated a brucellosis-free state or zone.

The bill would continue to allow the state veterinarian to issue import orders imposing additional requirements, including identification requirements, for animals imported into Nebraska from any state, country, zone or other area.

Senators advanced the bill on a 29-0 vote.