The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 35.155, subdivision 12, to allow for the importation of live Cervidae to certain accredited facilities under specific conditions. It maintains the prohibition on importing live Cervidae from areas where chronic wasting disease (CWD) has been detected unless the animals have tested negative for CWD. Additionally, it requires that the Cervidae must originate from herds that have achieved the highest certification status under a recognized CWD herd certification program.

Significantly, the bill introduces provisions that exempt interstate transfers of animals between facilities accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, as well as between such facilities and USDA-licensed exhibitors or institutions accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association that participate in the Species Survival Plan. Furthermore, it allows the commissioner of natural resources to issue permits for the importation of orphaned wild cervid species that are not susceptible to CWD, following a risk assessment.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 35.155