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 undergone a recognized CWD herd certification program.

Significantly, the bill introduces new provisions that exempt the interstate transfer of animals between facilities accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, as well as between such facilities and those that are USDA-licensed exhibitors or accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association. It also allows for the importation of orphaned wild cervid species that are not susceptible to CWD, provided a joint risk-based assessment is conducted by the commissioner of natural resources and the accredited institution.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 35.155