The proposed bill amends the Animal Health and Disease Control Act in Nebraska by introducing new definitions and provisions aimed at enhancing the protection of the state's livestock industry. Notably, it defines "foreign adversary" and emphasizes the importance of safeguarding livestock resources against potential threats posed by foreign entities. The bill also restates legislative findings that underscore the significance of animal health and disease control for Nebraska's economy and cultural interests. Additionally, it allows the Department of Agriculture to utilize USDA standards for disease management among livestock.

A key aspect of the bill is the prohibition of electronic identification devices for livestock that are manufactured by entities with ties to foreign adversaries. It explicitly states that the Department of Agriculture cannot mandate the use of foreign-manufactured electronic identification devices for tracking livestock. This legislative change aims to ensure the integrity and security of Nebraska's livestock production while reinforcing the state's commitment to protecting its agricultural interests. The bill repeals the original sections of the law that are being amended.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 54-2901, 54-2902, 54-2939, 54-2948