This joint resolution from the Wyoming Legislature requests that the United States Congress enact legislation or make necessary policy changes to allow agricultural producers to directly access medically important antibiotics for livestock without the requirement of a licensed veterinarian's supervision. The resolution highlights concerns regarding the recent amendments to the veterinary feed directive (VFD) by the FDA, which will limit the use of these antibiotics for therapeutic purposes only and require veterinary oversight for their use in animal feed and water. The resolution argues that this regulation will hinder agricultural producers' ability to promptly address the health care needs of their livestock, especially in situations where a veterinarian may not be readily available.
The resolution specifically calls for the removal of the requirement that the use of medically important antibiotics be supervised and prescribed by a licensed veterinarian, thereby allowing agricultural producers to continue accessing these antibiotics over-the-counter. It emphasizes the expertise of Wyoming agricultural producers in managing livestock health and advocates for their ability to make timely decisions regarding antibiotic use without unnecessary delays caused by regulatory constraints. The resolution concludes with a directive for the Secretary of State of Wyoming to transmit copies of this resolution to key federal officials and agencies.