USDA proposes to make digital livestock tagging mandatory

Currently, it is mandatory to have ear tags that allow you to identify the animal by visual reading of information. The new rules, which will come into force in mid-July 2023, will also require the use of electronic marking.

According to the agency, the new rules will help to more effectively prevent the spread of contagious animal diseases, promptly identify their sources and ways of spread. “Promptly tracking the outbreak can help ranchers and farmers get back to selling their produce more quickly, reduce the duration of factory quarantines, and keep more of their livestock safe from infection,” the document says.

In addition, it is also proposed to review and clarify the requirements for animal identification information.

The rules will apply to cattle, bison, all types of horses, poultry, sheep, goats, pigs and deer kept in captivity.

Comments on the new rules will be accepted by the ministry until March 22, 2023.