SF659 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Certain duties transferal from the commissioner of natural resources to the Board of Animal Health

AI Generated Summary

This legislative bill, SF No 659 from the Minnesota Senate, involves changes to the management and regulation of farmed deer-like animals (Cervidae) in Minnesota. The key points of the bill include:

  1. Transfer of Duties: Responsibilities previously held by the Commissioner of Natural Resources are being shifted to the Board of Animal Health. This includes duties related to the administration and enforcement of specific laws and rules concerning farmed whitetail deer.

  2. Fencing Requirements: The bill lays out specific fencing standards to prevent farmed Cervidae from escaping and to prevent contact between farmed and wild Cervidae. If fencing is found inadequate during inspections, corrective action must be taken, and repeated failures can lead to the revocation of a facility's registration.

  3. Inspections: The Board of Animal Health must conduct annual inspections of farmed Cervidae facilities. These inspections include checking perimeter fences and verifying animal inventory and tags.

  4. Surveillance for Diseases: There are mandatory surveillance and reporting requirements for chronic wasting disease within farmed Cervidae herds. The movement of animals from infected premises is restricted, and specific actions must be taken if the disease is detected, including possible depopulation of the affected herd.

  5. Disposal and Disclosure Requirements: Owners of premises where chronic wasting disease is detected must follow strict biohazard protocols and disclose any relevant information to potential buyers or transferees if the property is sold.

  6. Repeals and Amendments: Certain statutory sections and clauses are being repealed or amended to accommodate these changes.

In essence, this bill aims to enhance the regulatory framework governing the breeding and upkeep of farmed deer-like animals, with a strong focus on disease control, animal welfare, and environmental protection.

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
January 26, 2025HouseFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
January 26, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
January 26, 2025HouseFloorActionReferred toAgriculture, Veterans, Broadband, and Rural Development
January 26, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toAgriculture, Veterans, Broadband, and Rural Development
January 26, 2025HouseFloorActionReferred toAgriculture, Veterans, Broadband and Rural Development
February 02, 2025HouseFloorActionComm report: No recommendation, re-referred toEnvironment, Climate, and Legacy
February 02, 2025SenateFloorActionComm report: No recommendation, re-referred toEnvironment, Climate, and Legacy
March 23, 2025SenateFloorActionAuthor stricken