DATCP HOPEFUL USDA DECISION WILL ALLAY FEARS
Thursday, February 11th, 2010 -- 12:07 PM
The state's point man on livestock premises registration thinks the USDA?s surprise decision to scrap the National Animal Identification System (NAIS) will only strengthen 'Wisconsin's' law, and could ease some fears.As of 2006, all Wisconsin properties where livestock lived had to be registered with the state. While it's a state law, premises registration was listed as one of the three steps in the NAIS plan.
"It probably strengthens (Wisconsin's law) on a couple levels," says an optimistic Dr. Paul McGraw of DATCP. "The USDA has instructed states that it's up to state to mange traceability in their own states."
"It puts Wisconsin in the lead in that we already have livestock premises registration," he continues.
Some farmers, especially the Old Order Amish, have refused to comply with the law. They say it infringes on their religious freedom. A familiar argument is the premises registration will lead to the animal identification system, which they feel could be the Mark of the Beast warned about in the Bible.
McGraw says he?s hopeful the USDA?s decision last week will ease their fears.
"That would be my goal. I've been told that it's the animal identification system and tracing system that they were opposed to," McGraw notes. "I've said all along, the only thing that's law in Wisconsin is premises registration."
There are over 60,000 properties registered in Wisconsin. Penalties for not complying include fines and the denial of producers? licenses.
A court case currently moving through Clark County Circuit Court could help determine if the law is constitutional.
Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.