The bill amends the "Privately Owned Cervidae Producers Marketing Act" to enhance the regulation and management of cervidae livestock operations in Michigan. Key updates include the introduction of a definition for "biosecurity," which encompasses measures to prevent disease transmission among cervidae species, and the clarification of terms such as "cervidae livestock facility" and "cervidae products." The oversight of the act will now fall under the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, replacing the previous authority of the Department of Natural Resources. The bill also establishes cervidae livestock operations as agricultural enterprises, detailing their rights and responsibilities.

Additionally, the bill introduces new compliance requirements for cervidae livestock facilities, including the necessity for a business plan that outlines biosecurity measures and record-keeping. It mandates that registration applications be processed within specified timeframes, with provisions for refunds if deadlines are not met. The duration of registrations is modified from three years to one year, with new fee structures that reduce costs for various classes of registrations. The bill also prohibits the release of cervidae species from facilities and outlines penalties for violations, including misdemeanors and felonies for specific offenses. Overall, these amendments aim to improve the management of cervidae livestock while ensuring public health and wildlife protection.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-2): 287.952
House Introduced Bill: 287.952
As Passed by the House: 287.952