APHIS Reopens the Comment Period for Proposed Rule Creating U.S. Swine Health Improvement Plan
What: On December 31, 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) published a proposed rule for the creation of regulations governing the US Swine Health Improvement Plan (US SHIP). The comment period for the proposed rule originally closed on January 30, 2025, but is reopened. Comments are due by March 31, 2025.
Why: Under the proposed rule, US SHIP would be a voluntary livestock improvement program aimed at improving biosecurity, traceability, and disease surveillance for swine health. APHIS states the swine industry has requested the establishment of US SHIP, which builds on an existing pilot program initiated by industry. The proposed rule would codify US SHIP as a federal regulatory program and allow participants to obtain certifications of disease-monitored status for African swine fever and classical swine fever. APHIS states that the establishment of US SHIP would allow participants to market their products with the relevant certification status, which could limit disruptions to international and interstate commerce during outbreaks.
The proposed rule states US SHIP would be a voluntary livestock improvement program aimed at improving biosecurity, traceability, and disease surveillance for swine health. The proposed rule also states the establishment of US SHIP would allow participants to market their products with the relevant certification status, which could limit disruptions to international and interstate commerce during outbreaks.
APHIS states that under these circumstances, the proposed rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.
Action: APHIS is seeking comments concerning the proposed rule’s reporting and recordkeeping requirements. The comments will help APHIS:
- Evaluate whether the proposed information collection is necessary for the proper performance of the agency’s functions, including whether the information will have practical utility;
- Evaluate the accuracy of the agency’s estimate of the burden of the proposed information collection, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;
- Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and
- Minimize the burden of the information collection on those who are to respond (such as through the use of appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology, including permitting electronic submission of responses).
Small businesses are encouraged to comment and provide detailed information on any direct cost implications and whether any regulatory alternatives would minimize the impact on small entities.
Comments are due by March 31, 2025.
Is your small business or entity being negatively impacted by a proposed rule? If yes, write a comment letter to the proposing agency.
PROPOSED RULE:
U.S. Swine Health Improvement Plan
SUBMIT COMMENTS:
US Swine Health Improvement Plan; Reopening of Comment Period
CONTACT:
Shanerika Flemings
EMAIL:
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