Item 1: Presentation of Animal Disease Traceability Program
The Animal Health Commission presented an update on the animal disease traceability program. The program aims to track and monitor animal movements across the state, with a focus on preventing the spread of diseases such as chronic wasting disease (CWD). CWD primarily affects deer, elk, and moose.
Item 2: USDA Veterinary Services Update
The USDA Veterinary Services presented an update on their efforts to combat high-path avian influenza (HPAI) in Texas. HPAI primarily affects chickens, turkeys, ducks, and other domestic poultry.
Item 3: Budget Status Report
The commission reviewed the agency's budget status report for fiscal year 2024. The report showed a total of $568,919 in federal funds received as of June 30th. The majority of these funds go towards strategic animal emergency management initiatives.
Item 4: Administrative Penalties
The commission considered and approved four administrative penalty orders against individuals who failed to comply with rule requirements. These rules affect cattle, sheep, and other livestock owners.
Item 5: Proposed Amendments to Chapter 40 (Chronic Wasting Disease)
The commission proposed amendments to chapter 40, which deals with chronic wasting disease management in Texas. The proposal aims to eliminate surveillance zones and create new containment zones for high-risk areas affected by CWD. CWD primarily affects deer, elk, and moose.
Item 6: Proposed Amendments to Chapter 51 (Entry Requirements)
The commission rejected proposed amendments to chapter 51, which deals with entry requirements for breeding sheep in Texas. The proposal would have required genetic testing of imported sheep, which opponents argued would be costly and burdensome for small producers. Sheep are the primary animals affected by these rules.
Item 7: Proposed Amendments to Chapter 59 (General Practices and Procedures)
The commission adopted proposed amendments to chapter 59, which deals with general practices and procedures for the agency's partnerships with local law enforcement. These rules affect various types of animals and industries.
Item 8: Presentation of Recognition
The commission recognized Marshall Perry for his 50 years of service to the Texas Animal Health Commission. Perry worked as a livestock inspector in Mills County and was praised for his expertise, knowledge, and dedication to the industry.
Item 9: Public Comments
There were no public comments during this meeting.
Item 10: Adjournment
The commission adjourned the meeting.