APHIS Statement on Animal Disease Traceability
APHIS has decided not to implement the requirements
Encourage the use of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
As we undertake this reconsideration of whether or when to put new requirements in place, we will encourage the use of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) devices through financial incentives that are also consistent with suggestions we have received from cow/calf producers and others. We continue to believe that RFID devices will provide the cattle industry with the best protection against the rapid spread of animal diseases, as well as meet the growing expectations of foreign and domestic buyers. It is important to note that despite any future actions USDA-APHIS may take regarding official identification devices, the underlying ADT regulations apply only to sexually intact beef animals over 18 months of age moving in interstate commerce, cattle used for exhibition, rodeo and recreational events, and all dairy cattle. Those regulations permit brands and tattoos as acceptable identification if the shipping and receiving States agree. USDA’s goals to enhance Animal Disease Traceability (ADT) have not changed; our aim is to:
- Encourage the use of electronic identification for animals that move interstate under the current ADT regulation;
- Enhance electronic sharing of basic animal disease traceability data;
- Enhance the ability to track animals from birth to slaughter; and
- Increase the use of electronic health certificates